Deep Ecology and Related Topics
A Nine-Session Course for the Workplace, Faith Center or Home

Purpose:

1. To clarify earth-related values through discussions about deep ecology and related topics
2. To discover how personal values affect the way we view and treat the earth
3. To explore what it means to take personal responsibility for the earth.

Topics Covered:

• Deep Ecology: Human beings are one of many species, everything is interconnected, and sustainability should replace economic growth as our long-term goal. How do these underlying assumptions differ from current assumptions of our society?
  
  
• The Gaia Hypothesis: In some ways, the earth functions like a living organism, reflecting the interdependence of life and earth's compensating mechanisms. How do the biological and physical worlds interact to create a self-regulating process?
  
  
• Spirituality and the Earth: Some environmentalists and theologians emphasize a spiritual dimension in our relationship with the earth. Some believe spirituality is the key to finding motivation to live on a sustainable basis with other species and the earth's finite resources.
  
  
• Native American Wisdom: Most Americans are far removed from the earth in their daily lives. What can be learned from the rich heritage of Native Americans and their relationship with Mother Earth?
  
  
• Ecopsychology: Modern life tends to cut us off from our bond to the natural world. Could restoration of that bond help to heal both individuals and the planet?
  
  
• Simplicity: With conveniences of modern life come distractions. What are the benefits and challenges of living a simple life in a society dominated by materialism and technology?
  
  
• Bioregionalism: Each person lives in a unique geographical area with natural boundaries. Will a deeper understanding of our bioregion enable us to better care for the earth?
  
  
• Ritual: What can be learned from traditions where ceremonies, poetry, music and celebrations express respect and appreciation for the earth?
  
  

Course Readings :

I. DEEP ECOLOGY

1. "Deep Ecology" by Tanya Kucak
2. "Excerpt from As Above, So Below by Ronald Miller
3. Excerpt from "Simple in Means, Rich in Ends" by Stephan Bodian
4. Excerpt from "Deep Ecology and Lifestyle" by Arne Naess

1. "The Gaia Hypothesis" from Mother Earth News and The Green Reader
2. "The Comeback of Gaia" by Roger Lewin
3. "The Reenchantment of the World" by Morris Berman

1. "Creation Spirituality" by Matthew Fox
2. Excerpt from "The Seduction of WonderWorld" by Thomas Berry
3. Excerpt from "Planting the Seeds of Joy" by Stephanie Kaza

1. Quotes from Black Elk and Chief Seattle
2. Excerpts from Profiles in Wisdom, edited by Steven McFadden
3. Excerpts from "A Native American Perspective" by Winona LaDuke
4. "The Medicine Wheel" by Hyemeyohsts Storm

1. "The Greening of Psychology" by Theodore Roszak
2. Excerpts from Profiles in Wisdom by edited by Steve McFadden
3. Excerpt from "A Few Beautifully Made Things" by Suzi Gablik
4. "Excerpt from "When the Earth Hurts, Who Responds?" by Sarah A. Conn
5. Excerpt from The Earth in Mind by David Orr

1. Definitions of "bioregion" ( "Bioregions" by Peter Berg)
2. Re-inhabitation" by Gary Snyder
3. "Homeplace" by Scott Russell Sanders
4. A Bioregional quiz

1. "Ritual Is Essential" by Dolores LaChapelle
2. "Ritual: Religion in Action" by John Mabry
3. Excerpts from Ceremonial Circle by Sedonia Cahill and Joshua Halpern
4. Excerpt from "The Meaning of Eating and the Home as Ritual Space" by Sharon Parks