Stephen Downes

Knowledge, Learning, Community

The question being posed here is whether there is, "in certain forms of sharing, a more or less well-disguised colonialism?" The three authors each offer their own view. My own view aligns most closely with that expressed by Darrion Letendre, who says "colonialism is a problem because its very foundations inherently contradict what open education strives to be: inclusive, communal, accessible, openly licensed, and easily adaptable." The other two authors each raise the issue of reciprocity, but from different directions: one where we take without giving back, and the other where we give without taking back. These are, if you will, two aspects of openness: sharing of your own stuff with others, and being open to receiving what other people have to share. I think both are important, but I don't think it should be thought of as transactional. Anyhow, do take the time to have a look at this. See also SSIR, Autonomy, Culture and the Voice of Silence.

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Stephen Downes Stephen Downes, Casselman, Canada
stephen@downes.ca

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Last Updated: Mar 11, 2026 2:10 p.m.

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