Ep 15: Time and Space with Tēvita Ka‘ili

In this episode, Tēvita Ka‘ili who is BYU-Hawai‘i’s Dean and Professor in the faculty of culture, language and performing arts; shares his knowledge and experience learning and constructing Indigenous theory. We discuss some of the history, background, critiques, and evolution of Tāvāism (Tongan time-space theory). Additionally, we explore contemporary applications of Tongan philosophy to understanding social and ecological rhythm, connection, and our current global moment.

Topics in this episode include philosophy, identity, anthropology, Indigeneity, tempo-spatiality, relational ethics, food and environment.

Tongan terms and concepts used in this episode include: Fatongia (sacred duty or responsibility), Mana (potency, honour), Tapu (protection, sacred), Tā (to beat or strike, rhythm, ‘time’), Vā (point between, spatial-relational connection, ‘space’), Tauhi Vaha‘a/Tauhi Vā (An art/value of nurturing relationships/relational space), Fonua (land, ancestral heritage, placenta), Kava (ancestral elixir commonly used in contemporary social gatherings, life events, and for various rituals and ceremonies in Tongan society).