Emerging paradigm on traditional knowledge: Content, documentation and classical approaches to testing

Abstract

In any functional and dynamic society there is a continuous review of the existing knowledge, practices and technologies in varied areas. Knowledge from multiple sources including tradition, modernity and innovation and adaptation of both of these take place in a dynamic manner. In India, we have an unusual situation – on the one hand there are traditions in varied areas including specific technologies such as agriculture, medicine, textiles, metallurgy, etc. as well as theoretical sciences including mathematics, grammar, linguistics, logic, etc. that have survived for several centuries if not millennia. During the colonial period, there were knowledge systems and practices drawn from colonial sources and imposed upon our institutions that began to occupy all public spaces. This is a trend that has continued well after independence. Currently, the traditional knowledge systems occupy a very marginal place and receive very little support or resources or patronage from the state. In terms of public discourse on this matter, it is often stated explicitly or implied that choices of technology are made solely based on their scientific validity and it is on these grounds that traditional knowledge is found wanting. This article reviews some recent developments in this area – to begin with we review the nature and social organization of traditional knowledge. Then we go on to look at knowledge in the specific domains of agriculture as well as healthcare and a recent effort for the comprehensive documentation of traditional knowledge across all domains. We then look at testing and validation efforts that have taken place along traditional/classical lines. Examples are cited from the area of agriculture. It is seen that there is overwhelming evidence in favour of the validity of such knowledge.