In the culture of Australia's First Nations peoples, the land is not viewed simply as a physical space or piece of property. Which of the following best describes the traditional relationship they have with the area they call 'Country'?
- It is a spiritual connection where the people belong to the land and have a responsibility to protect and care for it.Answer
- BIt is a legal system where individuals own specific parcels of land for the purpose of buying and selling them for profit.
- CIt is a historical memory of the ancient past that no longer influences the modern lives or beliefs of Indigenous peoples.
Answer
The correct answer is the statement describing it as a spiritual connection where the people belong to the land and have a responsibility to protect and care for it.
The correct answer is correct because it captures the essence of 'Country' as a holistic spiritual bond. In this view, humans are not owners of the land but custodians who have a sacred duty to nurture the environment that sustains them.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
The spiritual and custodial nature of the Indigenous Australian connection to Country.
Hints
1
Think about whether Indigenous culture views land as something to be 'sold' or something to be 'protected'.
2
The concept of 'Country' involves a two-way relationship: the land cares for the people, and the people care for the land.
Practice More
Research the difference between 'Aboriginal' and 'Torres Strait Islander' geographic origins to understand how different groups relate to their specific Countries.
Estimated Time:45s