ABSTRACT
Ryan argues for a deep concern for rationality as a key element in wisdom. Eastern conceptions of wisdom are just as diverse as those encountered in the Western world, so in considering Eastern conceptions, are similarly faced with a diversity of approaches. Western civilisation in its encounter with the Orient, especially China, often finds its civilisation deeply mysterious and exotic. There is scant literature specifically on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ perspectives on wisdom, but their understanding of wisdom can be discerned from a study of their culture and traditions. In particular, it can be distilled from the many and varied stories, myths, and legends from every part of Australia, bearing in mind that there was not one Aboriginal community with one language, but many communities and many languages. The Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander conception of wisdom is embodied in an understanding of The Dreaming as metaphysical and practical foundation for Aboriginal life.
