Tsawalk: A Nuu-chah-nulth Worldview

by E. Richard Atleo

Overview

In Tsawalk, hereditary chief Umeek develops a theory of "Tsawalk," meaning "one," that views the nature of existence as an integrated and orderly whole, and thereby recognizes the intrinsic relationship between the physical and spiritual. Umeek demonstrates how Tsawalk provides a viable theoretical alternative that both complements and expands the view of reality presented by Western science. Tsawalk, he argues, allows both Western and indigenous views to be combined in order to advance our understanding of the universe. In addition, he shows how various fundamental aspects of Nuu-chah-nulth society are based upon Tsawalk, and what implications it has today for both Native and non-Native peoples.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780774810852
Publisher:	University of British Columbia Press
Publication date:	01/01/2005
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	168
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.50(d)
Age Range:	18 Years

About the Author

E. Richard Atleo, whose Nuu-chah-nulth name is Umeek, is a hereditary chief and served as co-chair of the internationally recognized Scientific Panel for Sustainable Forest Practices in Clayoquot Sound. He teaches in the First Nations Studies Department at Malaspina University College.

Table of Contents

Prologue

Acknowledgments

Introduction: Development of an Indigenous Theory

1 Tsawalk * Origin Tales and the Nature of Reality: How Son of Raven Captured the Day

2 Utl-cla * He-xwa: The Struggle for Balance

3 Xaata-tsa * Thluch-ha: Getting Married

4 Muu * Quis-hai-cheelth: One Who Transforms

5 Suh-tcha * Thlawk-thlawk-qua: A Humble Petition

6 Nuu-Pooh * Tloo-utl-ish-sum: Remember Me

7 Utl-Pooh * Heshook-ish Tsawalk: Everything Is One

Epilogue

Notes

Bibliography

Index