Exploring philosophy of place: Potential for synergy between phenomenology and ethnophysiography

This chapter discusses aspects of place from the perspective of phenomenology. It draws upon the author’s collaborative research on ethnophysiography discussed in earlier chapters of this volume. Ethnophysiography research requires an integrated approach by researchers from many disciplines; i.e. it should be transdisciplinary and utilize an overarching paradigm. Phenomenology is a candidate to provide this overarching paradigm. This paper discusses this issue and also the potential for research in ethnophysiography to contribute to an enhanced understanding of phenomenology. These twin objectives must be carried out in a manner which respects Indigenous knowledges. Hence, the chapter also discusses Indigenous Australian concepts of ‘The Dreaming’ and ‘ Tjukurrpa ’ and their role as organizing structures for concepts of place.