Redefining Science for Sustainable Development the Nexus of Endogenous Knowledge Systems and Scientific Paradigms

This article explores the integration of Western scientific paradigms and endogenous knowledge systems as a pathway to more inclusive and sustainable development. While Western science, rooted in positivism and empiricism, has driven technological progress, it often overlooks the socio-cultural and ecological contexts specific to local communities, particularly in the Global South. Endogenous knowledge, with its holistic and relational approaches, provides valuable insights for sustainable development. Through a theoretical and conceptual analysis, this paper advocates for epistemological pluralism, which fosters the co-production of knowledge across disciplines and cultures. The study also examines the decolonisation of science, addressing the historical marginalisation of indigenous knowledge and proposing institutional reforms that validate these systems in mainstream development practices. It highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and participatory research to ensure local communities play an active role in shaping sustainable development strategies. The findings emphasise the need for policy shifts, interdisciplinary research, and institutional changes to ensure equitable inclusion of indigenous knowledge in global sustainability agendas, offering a more culturally sensitive and resilient approach to development.