Abstract

A particular 21st century understanding of the Aztec concept nepantla, one which has recently taken hold in critical education thanks to the writings of Gloria Anzaldúa, does not accurately reflect traditional Aztec history and philosophy. This essay reveals why this is the case, demonstrating in detail the meaning of nepantla within the broader Aztec ontology. It then asks education researchers and practitioners to instead use the theoretical framework of malinalli, the Aztec philosophical concept which best aligns with transformative social justice goals.