The cosmovisions of indigenous farming communities are based on a holistic concept of nature and the cosmos, which encompasses the spiritual, the human and the material world, and the interactions between them. Within many indigenous knowledge systems, the description of the spiritual sphere is rich, diverse and structured. It is experiential and based on the teachings of people like shamans, and is expressed in classical texts, such as the Vedas, in the colloguial indigenous languages, in symbols and in the arts. The spiritual world is often seen as consisting of a creative force, a polarity between good and bad powers, and various spiritual beings such as gods, spirits and ancestors. These beings express themselves in nature and through living creatures.
Indigenous communities organize themselves on the basis of their cosmovision and concept of life.
Indigenous institutions regulate land use, learning, communication and agricultural practices. Leaders often have spiritual functions as well as responsibility for organizing the social system. Mankind and nature are seen to have a reciprocal relationship. If treated well, nature provides good health and the fruits of the earth. Animals are often seen as beings with an individual and a collective psyche or soul.