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Dreaming the Stars: The Astronomy of the Australian Aborigines

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-19, 12:41 authored by Roslynn HaynesRoslynn Haynes
Although the celestial observations made by the Aborigines were precise, the significance attached to them was conceptual rather than perceptual. It could not be derived from observation but only from knowledge gained by initiation into tribal values. The legends which embodied the astronomical knowledge had a threefold pragmatic role in tribal culture: they functioned as a predictive calendar for terrestrial events; they were associated with stories which reinforced the moral values pertaining to tribal identity; and they contributed to the belief system which provided a philosophical rationale for a tribe’s understanding of the universe. Selected myths relating to the sun, moon, the Milky Way, the Magellanic Clouds, Venus, and various constellations are outlined and illustrated by traditional bark painting designs to provide examples of these general statements. Parallels are drawn with the theories of some contemporary philosophers of science.

History

Publication title

Interdisciplinary Science Reviews

Volume

20

Pagination

187-197

ISSN

0308-0188

Department/School

School of Humanities

Publisher

Maney Publishing

Place of publication

Hudson Rd, Leeds, England, Ls9 7Dl

Rights statement

Copyright 2017 Informa UK Limited

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Expanding knowledge in language, communication and culture

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