Emancipatory
What does emancipatory knowing mean?
Awareness of the inherent inequities within an institution and advocating for fair systems.
What does ethical knowing guide us to do?
Make decisions about what is right, fair, and responsible.
What is aesthetic knowing often called?
The art of nursing.
What is empirical knowledge based on?
Observation, evidence, and scientific reasoning.
What does “Indigenous ways of knowing” generally mean?
Knowledge that comes from lived experience, land, community, and spirit — passed through stories, ceremony, and relationships.
Give an example of emancipatory knowing in healthcare.
Addressing systemic racism or advocating for health equity in all patient encounters, when needed.
Name one nursing principle that reflects ethical knowing.
Respect, beneficence, nonmaleficence, justice, autonomy, or accountability.
What would an example of aesthetic knowing look like in action?
Using intuition or empathy to comfort a patient or adapt care creatively.
How could a nurse use empirical knowledge to support cultural safety?
Learning from evidence-based practices for trauma-informed and culturally safe care.
Why is listening imperative during interactions with Indigenous peoples?
By listening deeply, we show respect for their perspectives, validate their stories, and create space for relationships built on trust and understanding.
How can nurses apply emancipatory knowing in everyday practice?
By reflecting on biases, advocating for policy change, amplifying marginalized voices, and promoting equity.
Why is it ethically important not to ignore moments of disrespect, even if they seem small?
Because silence can reinforce harm and disrespect toward marginalized people.
What did the silence after the comment communicate that words could not?
Communicated feelings of offense, deep discomfort, shame, and potentially confusion.
In my drumming scenario, what non-verbal cues indicated there was tension in the group?
Tense atmosphere, little to no eye contact from the student, and silence, fidgeting.
How can educators or nurses practice humility when engaging with Indigenous knowledge?
By listening more than speaking, acknowledging what we don’t know, and seeking guidance from Indigenous voices (“First Voice”).
Why is emancipatory knowing crucial for reconciliation in nursing?
It drives awareness of privilege and systemic oppression, leading to action for social change.
When a nurse witnesses discrimination, what ethical action is required?
To speak up or intervene respectfully — advocate for safety and equity.
How does aesthetic knowing differ from empirical knowing?
It focuses on human connection, emotion, and intuition.
Why is empirical knowing necessary but not sufficient in nursing practice?
Empirical knowing alone does not capture emotion, context, culture, or relationships, especially in relational contexts.
How does Indigenous knowledge challenge Western ideas of “objective knowledge”?
It values subjective experience, context, and community wisdom, integrating spiritual, emotional, and environmental dimensions into understanding.
In the drumming scenario, what larger issues does this moment reveal?
Power imbalances, a lack of cultural understanding, and a need for cultural/respectful approaches.
How does ethical knowing connect to truth and reconciliation in Canada?
Compels professionals to act with respect, accountability, and commitment to decolonization and justice.
How might aesthetic knowing help resolve cultural misunderstandings?
By understanding non-verbal communication/cues, and using empathy and being in tune with emotions in context to restore "harmony".
True or False: Empirical knowing ignores the patient's emotions
False: Although empirical knowledge largely focuses on facts and measurable outcomes, empirical knowing is also used in recognizing emotions via observation.
Why is relationality central to Indigenous knowledge systems?
Because understanding emerges from relationships — with people, animals, land, and spirit — emphasizing interdependence.