Abstracts
Abstract
A recent study of the wayfinding techniques employed by Inupiat residing in the communities of Barrow, Wainwright, and Anaktuvuk Pass, suggests that the incidence of disorientation episodes has increased in recent decades, despite easier access to maps and compasses and other aids to navigation and wayfinding. A general model, which focuses on the environmental and cognitive sources of disorientation, is introduced to help understand this apparent deterioration in Inupiat travel skills. Some social consequences of disorientation are also discussed, including: (a) the community reaction to individuals who get lost; and (b) resolution of spatial conflicts during group travel. Finally, questions are raised concerning the nature of "traditional knowledge," and its role in the Inupiat wayfinding system.
Résumé
Une récente étude sur les techniques d’orientation utilisées par les Inupiat résidant dans les communautés de Barrow, Wainwright et Anaktuvuk Pass, suggère que les épisodes de désorientation se sont accrus depuis les récentes décennies et ce, malgré l’accès aux cartes, compas, et autres aides pour la navigation et l’orientation. Un modèle général centré sur l’environnement et les sources cognitives de désorientation est présenté afin de comprendre cette apparente détérioration des compétences des Inupiat en matière de voyage. Certaines des conséquences sociales de la désorientation sont aussi discutées, incluant: a) la réaction de la communauté vis-à-vis des individus qui se perdent et b) la résolution de conflits ayant rapport à l’espace durant les voyages en groupe. Finalement, des questions sont soulevées concernant la nature des «savoirs traditionnels» et de leur rôle dans le système d’orientation des Inupiat.
Appendices
References
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