Indigenous knowledge meets artificial intelligence
MIT Technology Review - AI
Aug 15, 2025 10:00
Petala Ironcloud
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airesearchtechnology
Summary
The article explores how Indigenous perspectives, which view art as an integrated, intentional practice rather than a separate object, can inform the development of artificial intelligence. By incorporating Indigenous knowledge systems—emphasizing reflection, ceremony, and interconnectedness—AI design could become more holistic and ethically grounded. This approach suggests new possibilities for creating technology that respects cultural context and human values.
There is no word for art in most Native American languages. Instead, the closest terms speak not to objecthood but to action and intention. In Lakota, “wówačhiŋtȟaŋka” implies deep thought or reflection, while “wóčhekiye” suggests offering or prayer. Art is not separate from life; it is ceremony, instruction, design. Like architecture or code, it carries…