Indigenous First Principles (INDG40001)

HonoursPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 1
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This subject is designed to introduce you to Indigenous principles that aim to deepen your knowledge, interest, and understanding of the theoretical texts considered important to gain insight into the conceptual frameworks that shape and underpin philosophies generated by Indigenous Australian people. The subject is unique in its exploration of three vital questions: (i) Is there an Aboriginal philosophy?; (ii) What fundamental principles might such a philosophy be grounded in?; and (iii) Would it be an Australian philosophy? Writings by authors including Ali Cobby Eckermann, David Mowaljarlai, Martin Nakata, Paddy Roe, Deborah Bird Rose, Warwick Thorton, Alexis Wright, and others will provide a framework for discussion. Students will be encouraged to expand their intellectual horizons to think creatively and to participate in depth discussion and scholarly exploration in a final written project. 

Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • Critically examine the existence and nature of Aboriginal philosophy, exploring the fundamental principles and conceptual frameworks that shape and underpin philosophies generated by Indigenous Australian people.
  • Analyse and discuss the vital questions surrounding Aboriginal philosophy, including its existence and grounding principles.
  • Engage with and interpret theoretical texts and writings by Indigenous authors, such as Ali Cobby Eckermann, David Mowaljarlai, Martin Nakata, Paddy Roe, Deborah Bird Rose, Warwick Thornton, and Alexis Wright, to gain insights into Indigenous philosophical perspectives.
  • Develop an understanding of the diversity and complexity of Indigenous philosophical thought, recognising the unique worldviews, epistemologies, ontologies, and sensitivities that shape these perspectives.
  • Expand intellectual horizons and think creatively about Indigenous philosophical principles, participating in-depth discussions and scholarly explorations of these concepts.
  • Demonstrate the ability to synthesise and communicate insights and understandings gained from studying Indigenous philosophical perspectives through independent research and a final high-quality written project.

Generic skills

Students who successfully complete this subject should be able to:

  • grow sophisticated insight into the role of theory in Indigenous studies;
  • develop the ability to undertake high-level individual research;
  • conduct research in an ethically appropriate way;
  • experience the enhanced intellectual outcomes of collegiality;
  • apply their learning in a culturally sensitive way. 

Last updated: 4 March 2025