Javanese Traditions Offer a New Perspective on Earth Science, Say Researchers
Modern earth science may owe a surprising debt to the traditions adn spirituality of the island of Java, according to observations shared by researchers in a recent discussion.Adam Bobbette, a lecturer at the University of glasgow, detailed how historical interactions between 19th-century colonial scientists and local Javanese communities demonstrably influenced the growth of geological understanding. This isn’t presented as a romantic view of local culture, but as a meaningful epistemological contribution to the field.
Bobbette argues that Indonesian geosciences have always encompassed spiritual and political dimensions alongside technical expertise. He points to evidence showing that early European geologists studying Java’s volcanoes and geology actively engaged with local knowledge, frequently enough embedded in ritual and myth. Rather than dismissing these beliefs, Bobbette contends that modern science emerged from a synthesis of European rationality and the rich, meaningful wisdom of Indonesian traditions.
A key example highlighted is the Javanese understanding of the interconnectedness between mount Merapi and the South Sea – two geographically significant locations linked through spiritual belief and the labuhan ritual. This tradition, connecting fire and water, mountains and sea, reflects a Javanese cosmological view of the earth as a dynamic, interacting system. Bobbette notes the striking parallel between this worldview and the modern geological concept of interconnected geodynamics, which recognizes that tectonic stresses and movements in one region can influence events in others. This suggests Javanese geospatial mapping isn’t merely mystical, but offers a systemic and relational understanding of the earth.
Bobbette also critiques the anthropocentric nature of much modern science, which positions humans as controllers of nature. In contrast, Javanese tradition views mountains, seas, and rocks as living entities with inherent agency. This perspective, he argues, fosters a more egalitarian geospatial ethic, shifting the relationship from domination to dialog. He suggests this is particularly relevant in addressing the current climate crisis and issues of resource exploitation.
The conversation, featuring YouTuber and Assistant Professor of Chemical and Environmental Engineering at the University of Nottingham, bagus Muljadi, underscored the idea that Java represents a unique space where science, spirituality, and politics converge to shape our understanding of the earth.Local traditions, Bobbette asserts, have long embodied the principle of ecological balance – a value now globally recognized.He believes the future of geoscience must acknowledge this spiritual and relational dimension to maintain its integrity and foster a more ethical, sustainable, and harmonious relationship between humanity and the planet. This discussion was featured in Endgame episode #24, titled “How Java Shaped Modern Earth Sciences” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sC1m5zml2u0).
