Another example of what is good for the economy is the destruction of the environment and nonrenewable resources generates money in terms of jobs for workers tearing up what cannot be replaced. There is a recent move to replace the GDP with the Genuine Progress Indicator, which would not only look at the money but also include the costs of damage to our lives, health, environment, employment and families. Aboriginal perspectives of life and interactions have always sought to look at how each action will impact on others, the land, the animals and the environment. There is a connection between all things on this earth and we are a part of that. Bottom lines have always been inferior methods of determining what is good for us.
Aboriginal knowledge of history goes beyond what archeologists or anthropologists can piece together of the past in their territories. Oral history of Aboriginals have described people, events and family histories in detail. Scientists and researchers are collectors of artifacts but for an understanding of its origin, purpose or history they often turn to Aboriginal groups. Collectors and museums worldwide value Aboriginal artifacts in the billions.
Lately, it has been our spirituality that has been compared to the rankings of Tibetan ancient knowledge and other highly evolved spiritual thought or enlightenment. It is the pureness of our connection to the universe and our environment that brings us to places beyond modern institutions. It is the native ability to walk in harmony with creation and to see the goodness of the Creator in all things that is garnering popularity.
Traditional knowledge passed down through hundreds of years of oral history and experiences carries with it a value vital to the cultures and societies of Aboriginal peoples that go beyond the billion dollar industries that it supports in the modern world. It holds immense importance and opportunities for Aboriginal peoples wishing to use it.
