The Philosophy and the Built Environment working group presents
Jamila Jaxaliyeva, Master of Foresty candidate, Yale School of Environment:
“Steppelands 2.0.”
This talk will explore how the philosophy of the built environment can inform the development of a modern system for nomadic lifestyles in Kazakhstan, particularly in the context of the steppe. Historically, Kazakhstan’s nomadic way of life was intricately connected to its governance, creating a sustainable relationship with the land. The Soviet Union’s push toward sedentarism disrupted this harmony, severing the cultural and governance ties rooted in mobility. Now, as Kazakhstan seeks to rediscover its true identity, the talk will argue for a return to nomadic traditions, supported by modern technology and infrastructure. It will challenge the misconception, often stemming from Soviet and modernist views, that nomadism is a backward form of civilization. The presentation will propose that tribalism, far from being a negative force, complements the nomadic lifestyle and offers a model for sustainable governance. In this context, the talk will highlight how modern approaches to the built environment can help revive and sustain Kazakhstan’s nomadic heritage for the future.