Representativity and inclusivity

The representativity of people and opinions is important for good research. This is the case both as sources of knowledge and decision makers about what is to be researched. Plural frameworks and inclusivity offer possibilities to take into consideration new points of view on language and develop a better understanding of it, which is the main goal of linguistics: understanding language.

It is also important to acknowledge one's own (theoretical, academic, cultural) background, since it shapes the way we see the world, and therefore also all scientific decisions we take or analyses we make. For example, many linguists in European universities have a "Western" background, which also shapes their views and methods of research. Other people with different backgrounds might have other methods, which should not be negliged.

One criticism towards the SDGs is that the UN takes for granted that nature and society are two different things. However, this is a eurocentric thought, and may indigenous communities do not distinguish these two "concepts".

See also Traditional Ecological Knowledge

The SDG target 16.7 is to "ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making at all levels", and this should also be considered in linguistic related work.