Reconnecting with Earth

Discussion Course Goals:

   •     To clarify values through discussions about our relationship to Earth.

   •     To discover how personal beliefs and values affect the way we view and treat the earth.

   •     To explore what it means to take personal responsibility for Earth.

Topics Covered:

1. Wild Nature: An experience of awe and wonder in nature can lead to a deeper sense of connection to the Earth.  How do these experiences shape our relationship to the Earth?

2. Shifting Paradigms: 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?

3. Nature and Spirit: Religion and spirituality can play a significant role in shaping ecological values and ethics.  What insight and inspiration for taking responsibility for Earth do they offer?

4. The Universe Story:  Scientific discoveries in physics, biology and cosmology are challenging our assumptions about how the world works.  How might these insights change our relationship to the Earth?

5. 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?

6. Bringing it Down to Earth: Modern, postindustrial society reflects an outdated worldview.  How can we build a society that reflects a new understanding of our place on Earth?  How can we as individuals, live a more Earth-centered lifestyle? 

“When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the universe”

- John Muir

*This course contains an optional seventh session Celebration where participants can explore follow up actions.