Methods and Knowledge in the Study of Indigenous Politics

Scholars approach Indigenous politics from different positionalities, theoretical lenses, and methods. This panel is for case studies of the different methods used in the study of Indigenous politics, including those based on Indigenous knowledges. Researchers have long questioned whether typical political science perspectives, theories, and methods capture the main interests and ideas of Indigenous peoples. For example, a concern is if the ideas embedded in political science research which often focus on states are appropriate in the study of Indigenous peoples. In contrast, research may start from a local Indigenous issue or Indigenous knowledges or be led by Indigenous researchers. Others seek to study Indigenous politics from the lens of Indigenous people as a demographic group, identity, or ‘voting bloc’. Some work has sought to marry perspectives. Work may also examine the tensions in being an Indigenous or non-Indigenous researcher completing work in this space. In bringing Indigenous epistemologies, methodologies, and methods of research from different peoples into political science, the panel will encourage discussion and application of methodological pluralism. Thus, both traditional political science scholarship, as well as scholarship that centers Indigenous knowledges, epistemologies, and methodologies, will be facilitated and centered in this panel.