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Indigenous Philosophy (INDG40001)

HonoursPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 1 - On Campus
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This subject seeks to transform your thinking in its engagement with Indigenous Philosophy. Drawing on a range of scholarly and creative works, it will explore how Indigenous philosophical approaches can be relied upon to meet to some of the major challenges facing the world today. This subject is grounded in an ethic of growing shared understanding across different systems of thought. It attends to questions around belonging, relationality and Country from perspectives which appreciate the complex political realities shaping Australia’s history and its present. Throughout this subject, you will deepen your understanding of Indigenous Philosophy through a close engagement with works by figures like David Mowaljarlai, Mary Graham, Paddy Roe, and Alexis Wright. You will also have the opportunity to meaningfully engage with the works of key thinkers from around the world and across disciplines.

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: 12 February 2026