Genealogy as Taxonomy

In: International social science journal: ISSJ, Band Sep

Abstract

The use of genealogy by New Zealand Maori is not confined to human descent lines and relationships. It is also used as an epistemological framework for describing the inherent order in nature. Called 'whakapapa,' these typically contain information concerning an organism's theorized origin from the gods; descent lines; relationships (spiritual and physical), and uses. At one level, they function as all-inclusive 'folk taxonomies.' But understanding the nature of the relationships is impossible without knowledge of the accompanying narrative(s). These provide explanatory theories of why things came to be the way they are, as well as ethical guidelines for proper conduct. Renewed interest in the whakapapa of plants and animals results from concerns raised by Maori regarding genetic engineering, particularly the transfer of genes between humans and other species. Central to this interest is the nature of the relationships outlined in the whakapapa and what these might mean in terms of modern scientific concepts of taxonomy based on phylogeny and of the nature of a species. In this paper the whakapapa of an important food plant, the sweet potato or kumara, is described and an attempt made to interpret the multiple functions of this particular whakapapa. 2 Figures, 1 Photograph, 14 References. (Original abstract - amended)