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).