"Ism-schism" worldview and the demise of nature: Ecofeminism as a viable alternative

Author(s)
Liska, Joyce
Contributor(s)
King, David A.
Keywords
Biology, Ecology.
Women's Studies.
Environmental Sciences.

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URI
http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12424/144943
Online Access
http://hdl.handle.net/10150/278506
Abstract
This paper suggests that environmental degradation is a symptom of a corrupt worldview. The dominant Western worldview construes the world as an aggregate of component parts having an antithetical, competitive relationship. This dualistic arrangement which divides and then negates the "other" conditions people to value aggression and power, and inevitably results in violence. Nature, in this hierarchical caste system is regarded as inferior, inert, or evil. Behavior and social institutions, such as the Christian religion, science and capitalist economy both reflect and reproduce these destructive values. Ecofeminism, by contrast, offers an alternative worldview more conducive to environmental prosperity. It regards the cosmos holistically, with all components having an equally valid, albeit distinctive, significance. This orientation emphasizes compassion and communion rather than fear and subjugation. Dissociating from the ego-based mindset of domination which underpins social and environmental decay allows the possibility of transforming consciousness and establishing an ecological worldview.
Date
2013-04-03
Type
text
Identifier
oai:arizona.openrepository.com:10150/278506
1376049
.b33519304
Copyright/License
Copyright © is held by the author. Digital access to this material is made possible by the University Libraries, University of Arizona. Further transmission, reproduction or presentation (such as public display or performance) of protected items is prohibited except with permission of the author.
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