Yates, A., Dombroski, K., & Dionisio, R.
Culture Planning & Design
Dialogues in Human Geography, 13(2), 268-287
2023
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This paper provides an examination of the intersection between wellbeing-led governance frameworks and the inclusion of more-than-human and Indigenous perspectives.
The authors offer a thorough critique of existing wellbeing indices, cautioning against the risks associated with oversimplification and the loss of context in the measurement of wellbeing. By advocating for a pluriversal approach, the paper underscores the importance of embracing multiple realities and knowledge systems in the development of governance frameworks. The call for Indigenous-led research interventions is particularly compelling, highlighting the necessity of co-creation methods that respect and integrate Indigenous-Māori cultural perspectives. This approach not only challenges dominant paradigms but also contributes to the creation of more relevant and effective tools for addressing the current ecological crisis. The paper situates itself within a broader discourse on socio-ecological sustainability, offering insights into how governance can evolve to better reflect the complexities of human and more-than-human relationships. Moreover, the reference to staying with the trouble, borrowing from Haraway (2018), encapsulates the paper’s commitment to engaging deeply with the challenges of our times, rather than seeking quick fixes. This perspective encourages a reflective and inclusive process of developing wellbeing indices and tools that are genuinely capable of guiding governance towards more sustainable and equitable outcomes.