Tribal Star Charts

"Tribal Star Charts" explores the sophisticated astronomical knowledge of indigenous civilizations worldwide, revealing how they meticulously observed the cosmos and integrated these observations into their daily lives. It highlights the critical role of astronomy in their agriculture, navigation, social structures, and ceremonial practices, challenging the traditionally Eurocentric view of scientific advancement. Discover how the Maya civilization developed a precise calendar system and how Polynesian wayfinding techniques utilized star compasses, demonstrating the depth of their understanding. The book emphasizes the importance of recognizing diverse epistemologies and understanding indigenous systems, offering a richer, more complete history of science and revealing sustainable models of interacting with the natural world. It examines archaeoastronomy, cultural astronomy, and the ethnography of indigenous knowledge, providing concrete examples of their sophisticated understanding. By centering the voices and knowledge of indigenous communities, the book avoids cultural appropriation and emphasizes the ethical considerations of studying this knowledge. Structured in three parts, the book first introduces fundamental concepts and methodologies, then examines global case studies, and finally analyzes the broader implications of indigenous astronomy for contemporary issues like environmental sustainability and cultural preservation. It connects to fields like anthropology and archaeology, providing a broad, interdisciplinary approach suitable for anyone interested in history, science, and indigenous cultures.