Colonialism and the COVID-19 Pandemic: Perspectives from indigenous Psychology

The book explores how colonial societies maintain beliefs that hierarchies are part of the natural order, leading to racism, health, and wealth disparities, which have increased vulnerabilities to the Covid 19 virus. Indigenous societies view individuals as interdependent and hold an optimistic view that this tragedy can yield important lessons for future improvement.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 08 January 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This book delves into the responses to the COVID-19 virus through the lens of indigenous thinking, offering valuable insights into the shortcomings of dealing with the pandemic. Colonial societies uphold the notion that hierarchies are inherent in the natural order, granting certain individuals privileges that others are denied. These hierarchies have not only perpetuated racism but also exacerbated health, wealth, and vulnerability disparities, making individuals more susceptible to the virus. In contrast, indigenous societies perceive individuals as interconnected and hold a hopeful belief that this tragedy can provide valuable lessons for future improvement. The book explores the legacy of colonial societies in creating existing vulnerabilities and incorporates an indigenous perspective to reimagine the problem and its potential solutions.

Introduction:
The COVID-19 pandemic has posed unprecedented challenges to societies worldwide. In response, governments and healthcare systems have implemented various measures to combat the virus, including lockdowns, social distancing, and the distribution of vaccines. However, the pandemic has also highlighted the deep-rooted inequalities and vulnerabilities that exist within societies.

Colonial Societies and Hierarchies:
Colonial societies have a history of maintaining hierarchical structures that prioritize the interests of a few elite individuals over the well-being of the broader population. This hierarchical mindset has contributed to the perpetuation of racism, health, and wealth disparities.

Racism:
Colonialism has been a major driver of racism, as it has created a system of power and privilege that benefits white individuals at the expense of people of color. This has led to systemic discrimination and marginalization of marginalized communities, making them more vulnerable to the impacts of the pandemic.

Health Disparities:
Colonialism has also contributed to health disparities by undermining healthcare systems in colonized countries. This has left many communities without access to quality healthcare, making them more susceptible to the virus and its complications.

Wealth Disparities:
Colonialism has also led to wealth disparities, as resources and wealth have been extracted from colonized countries and transferred to the colonizers. This has created a cycle of poverty and inequality that has further exacerbated vulnerabilities to the pandemic.

Indigenous Perspectives:
In contrast to colonial societies, indigenous societies have a different perspective on the world. They view individuals as interdependent and hold an optimistic view that this tragedy can yield important lessons for future improvement.

Interdependence:
Indigenous societies emphasize the importance of community and interconnectedness. They recognize that individuals are part of a larger ecosystem and that their actions can have impacts on the environment and other people.

Optimism:
Indigenous societies also hold an optimistic view that this tragedy can lead to positive change. They believe that by learning from the past and embracing indigenous knowledge and practices, societies can create a more just and sustainable future.

Legacy of Colonial Societies:
The legacy of colonial societies in contributing to existing vulnerabilities is undeniable. However, it is important to recognize that colonialism is not the sole cause of these vulnerabilities.

Re-imagining the Problem:
In order to address these vulnerabilities, it is necessary to re-imagine the problem and its solutions. This requires a shift in mindset from individualism to collectivism, where the well-being of the community is prioritized over the interests of a few.

Indigenous Knowledge and Practices:
Indigenous knowledge and practices can play a crucial role in re-imagining the problem and its solutions. Indigenous communities have a wealth of knowledge and experience in sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, and community health.

Conclusion:
The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the deep-rooted inequalities and vulnerabilities that exist within societies. By adopting an indigenous perspective and incorporating indigenous knowledge and practices, societies can create a more just and sustainable future. It is important to recognize the legacy of colonialism and work towards a more equitable and inclusive world.

Weight: 397g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030928278
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022