Eco-Spirituality as a Non-Theistic Worldview Has Potential for Building Resilient Ecologies in Pursuit of Sustainability
摘要
Eco-spirituality is a spiritual practice that combines environmental stewardship and religion to recognize the interconnectedness between humans and the ecosphere. However, it may not be free from constraints that limit the establishment of resilient ecologies for humanity attempting to make progress toward sustainable development. Therefore, we argue that if eco-spirituality is embedded in religion, then it may be extremely challenging to gain ground in sustainability. The purpose of this chapter is to compare selected Indigenous knowledges and ancient Greek wisdom to Judeo-Christian worldviews, while considering their influence on eco-spirituality, as the latter can empower mankind moving toward a sustainable world. This nonexperimental work relied on qualitative data derived from a systematic review analysis of the topic under study. This was examined through the lens of Judeo-Christian and Indigenous North American spiritualities and contrasted with the worldview of ancient Greek culture. Our findings, although non-inclusive of many more cultures, religions, or philosophies, are supportive of eco-spirituality as a vehicle that expands opportunities in sustainability. Yet it will be necessary to move away from Judeo-Christian worldviews, while embracing older perspectives inclusive of notions about a Higher Being. This realization comes with a reawakening of understanding around the real place for humans in nature, while evolving further epistemologies from distinctively inexplicable and transcendental ideas of sole divine intervention.