Deep Ecology

The Center for Sustainable Living presents Exploring Deep Ecology,a nine-session course for the workplace, faith Center, or home with workbooks provided by the Northwest Earth Institute (www.nwei.org).

EXPLORING DEEP ECOLOGY

Purpose:

• To clarify earth-related values through discussions about Exploring Deep
  Ecology.
• To discover how personal values affect the way we view and treat the earth.
• To understand 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.

A New Story From Science: Newton viewed the universe as knowable, predictable, and made up of things. Some recent scientists see the universe as a living system of dynamic relationships. How does this "New Story" affect the way we view ourselves and our role?

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: In modern society, we have lost our intimate relationship with the earth. What are the psychological implications?

Simplicity: With conveniences of modern life come distractions. How can simplicity bring satisfaction in a society where materialism and technology are paramount?

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?

"Literally, when I step on the Earth and view the Earth, I have more reverence, awe and respect. I am more aware of the relationships of all inhabitants of the Earth. My ears are much more attuned to ecological issues I see and hear in the media...Thank you so much for your commitment to helping more of us appreciate our homeland, the Earth."
--Deep Ecology course participant

We have two sessions running to date. One has started and meets at the
Lutheran Community Ministry on Mondays through February.

The other group will start on February 8 and run through March 29 at the
Unitarian Church.

If there is sufficient interest we will start a third group. Two people have
shown interest in a third group. Contact Lucille Bertuccio at 331-2726 (home), 332-8796 (Center for Sustainable Living), or by emailing .