Cognitive Decolonization and Cognitive Dissonance ᑳᐦ ᑭᑐᐊᐧᐠ kâh-kitowak: Intersecting Pathways towards Intellectual Emancipation

Introduction

Cognitive decolonization ᑳᐦ ᑭᑐᐊᐧᐠ, kâh-kitowak, and cognitive dissonance are two profound concepts that intersect within the realm of intellectual and epistemic discourse. Cognitive decolonization ᑳᐦ ᑭᑐᐊᐧᐠ, refers to the process of challenging and displacing the colonial epistemic paradigm to centre Indigenous knowledge systems. On the other hand, cognitive dissonance, a term coined by social psychologist Leon Festinger, describes the mental discomfort experienced by an individual who holds two or more contradictory beliefs, values, or perceptions simultaneously. This article explores the relationship between these two concepts in the journey towards intellectual emancipation.

Cognitive Decolonization ᑳᐦ ᑭᑐᐊᐧᐠ, kâh-kitowak: An Epistemic Revolution

Cognitive decolonization ᑳᐦ ᑭᑐᐊᐧᐠ, kâh-kitowak, is a transformative process that disrupts the colonial narratives and epistemic systems that have historically marginalized Indigenous knowledge. It seeks to displace the Eurocentric perspectives that dominate global discourse and repositions Indigenous epistemic systems at the forefront of intellectual consideration. ᑳᐦ ᑭᑐᐊᐧᐠ, kâh-kitowak means “there is thunder; they (the thunderbirds) thunder; they are calling”. For me, when I teach about how to Indigenize across the country, I see thunder in all of our heads (non-Indigenous and Indigenous individuals) the thunderbird is calling us to transform, and we are.

This process begins with the recognition of the pervasive influences of colonialism within our collective consciousness. It involves a conscious unlearning of biased narratives, a rigorous critique of the colonial legacy, and a deliberate effort to dismantle the persisting structures of power born out of colonial rule.

Cognitive decolonization ᑳᐦ ᑭᑐᐊᐧᐠ, kâh-kitowak, is therefore, a commitment to epistemic justice. It is a call to honour Indigenous wisdom, embrace epistemic diversity, and foster a more balanced and equitable intellectual ecosystem.

Cognitive Dissonance: An Internal Conflict

Cognitive dissonance theory suggests that individuals strive for internal consistency, and when inconsistency (dissonance) is experienced, they tend to become psychologically uncomfortable. This discomfort motivates them to reduce the dissonance and achieve consonance, either by changing their beliefs, acquiring new information, or minimizing the importance of the inconsistency.

Cognitive dissonance often arises in the process of cognitive decolonization ᑳᐦ ᑭᑐᐊᐧᐠ, kâh-kitowak. When individuals begin to question the dominant colonial narratives and recognize the value of Indigenous knowledge, they may experience a conflict between their pre-existing beliefs and the new perspectives they are encountering.

Intersecting Pathways: Decolonization and Dissonance

The journey of cognitive decolonization ᑳᐦ ᑭᑐᐊᐧᐠ, kâh-kitowak, can trigger cognitive dissonance, leading to a profound intellectual and epistemic transformation. As individuals confront the biases of colonial narratives and start to appreciate the depth and value of Indigenous epistemic systems, the conflict between these contradictory perspectives can generate a powerful cognitive dissonance.

This dissonance, though uncomfortable, can serve as a catalyst for change. It can stimulate critical reflection and encourage individuals to reconcile these conflicting beliefs by reevaluating and adjusting their worldviews. The result is often a shift away from the dominance of colonial epistemic systems and a move towards a more inclusive, equitable understanding that values and privileges Indigenous knowledge.

Conclusion

The intersection of cognitive decolonization ᑳᐦ ᑭᑐᐊᐧᐠ, kâh-kitowak, and cognitive dissonance offers a potent pathway towards intellectual emancipation. Through the uncomfortable but necessary process of cognitive dissonance, individuals can challenge and change deeply ingrained colonial narratives. Simultaneously, cognitive decolonization ᑳᐦ ᑭᑐᐊᐧᐠ, kâh-kitowak, provides the framework for centring Indigenous epistemic systems, promoting a more balanced, diverse, and equitable intellectual ecosystem. While the journey may be complex and fraught with challenges, it is a crucial step towards epistemic justice and a more inclusive understanding of the world.

Sources for Cognitive Dissonance:

Cognitive Dissonance, Second Edition: Reexamining a Pivotal Theory in Psychology, E. Harmon-Jones (Editor) Copyright © 2019 by the American Psychological Association. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2019-11198-001

Sources for Cognitive Decolonization ᑳᐦ ᑭᑐᐊᐧᐠ, kâh-kitowak:

Menard, Andrea., May 13, 2023, an Indigenous scholar thinking about cognition and cognitive dissonance and how to dismantle the mind’s pathways through a term I created called, cognitive decolonization, or in Cree, ᑳᐦ ᑭᑐᐊᐧᐠ, kâh-kitowak meaning “there is thunder; they (the thunderbirds) thunder; they are calling”. There is thunder in our heads, the thunderbird ᐱᐦᐁᓯᐤ, pihesiw…is calling us all home.

Image:

Morrisseau, Norval., (date on or about 1979), Anishinaabe artist, (1931-2007). Work entitled, “Blue Thunderbird”. https://www.aci-iac.ca/art-books/norval-morrisseau/biography/