THE IMPACT OF INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE ON BEHAVIORAL ECONOMICS AND PUBLIC POLICY

Integrating Indigenous knowledge into behavioural economics and public policy has the potential to redefine governance frameworks by providing different perspectives on human behaviour, decision-making, and sustainability. Indigenous societies have long established sophisticated knowledge systems that value ecological stewardship, social harmony, and long-term intergenerational well-being. This is in contrast to Western behavioural economics, which traditionally focuses on individual choice, direct results, and quantitative data. Indigenous cultures’ holistic, community-cantered methods might improve the implementation of Cass Sun stein’s behavioural insights in public policy, notably through nudges and risk regulation. Indigenous knowledge systems frequently promote communal responsibility, sustainability, and relational approaches to environmental and social concerns, which may inspire policy on climate change, health, and resource management. However, it is difficult to connect Western, economically oriented frameworks with Indigenous traditions since their values, decision-making processes, and the importance of individual vs community action differ. This article investigates the possibility of combining Indigenous knowledge with behavioural economics, specifically if nudging and other behavioural methods may be modified to respect Indigenous sovereignty and knowledge systems. It also explores the ethical implications of incorporating Indigenous knowledge into policy frameworks that frequently ignore the cultural, spiritual, and non-quantifiable components of these systems. Finally, incorporating Indigenous knowledge into behavioural policy may result in more inclusive, sustainable, and culturally respectful governance structures, promoting better long-term results for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.