Deep Ecology

Deep Ecology explores the philosophical, psychological, and sociological roots of today's environmental movement, examines the human-centered assumptions behind most approaches to nature, explores the possibilities of an expanded human consciousness, and offers specific direct action suggestions for individuals to practice. Widely read in it first printing, Deep Ecology has established itself as one of the most significant books on environmental thought to appear in this decade. "Deep Ecology is subversive, but it's the kind of subversion we can use." --San Francisco Chronicle "This book is an attempt at codifying a scattered body of ecological insight into a philosophy that places human beings on an absolutely equal footing with all other creatures on the planet." --Stephanie Mills, Whole Earth Review "Difficult and (to some) unfamiliar insights on nature and human beings presented with simplicity and clarity, Deep Ecology rattles a cage full of occidental presumptions and yet it all seems almost like common sense." --Gary Snyder

This book approaches deep ecology as a philosophy, not as a political, social, or environmental movement.

Bringing together thirteen new essays on the important relationship between traditional world spirituality and the contemporary environmental perspective of deep ecology, this landmark book explores parallels and contrasts between religious values and those proposed by deep ecology. In examining how deep ecologists and the various religious traditions can both learn from and critique one another, the following traditions are considered: indigenous cultures, Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Judaism, Catholicism, Islam, Protestantism, Christian ecofeminism, and New Age spirituality.

Spinoza and Deep Ecology explores the philosophical, psychological and political assumptions that underpin a concern for nature, offering specific suggestions how the domination of humans and nature may be overcome. It is primarily intended as an introduction to the philosophy of ecology, known as deep ecology, and to the way Spinoza's philosophy has been put to this aim. Only a self-realisation, along the lines of Spinoza's philosophy, can afford a philosophy of care which is inclusive of humans and the non-human world, which recognises the need for civil laws and democratic politics for human flourishing. In stark contrast to texts written by or on behalf of deep ecologists, Spinoza and Deep Ecology is not afraid of criticising existing versions of deep ecology which fail to accept that human concerns are integral to environmental issues.

Instead of thinking of nature as a resource to be used for human needs, deep ecology argues that the true value of nature is intrinsic. This comprehensive and wide-ranging anthology contains almost 50 articles by the leading writers and thinkers in the field, offering a broad array of perspectives on this important approach to environmentalism.

The Ecology of Wisdom is a definitive collection of essays by Norwegian philosopher Arne Naess, a founder of the Deep Ecology movement and one of the leading thinkers of modern environmentalism. Drengson and Devall provide a comprehensive and accessible portrait of Naess's philosophy and activism, and showcase his enthusiasm, wit, and spiritual fascination with nature.

This volume explores some recent thoughts and trends in environmental philosophy and applied ethics. The topics selected here are contemporary and offered in academic programs across the globe. This book is an essential reference work for those who are keen to conduct detailed research within the fields of environmental philosophy, environmental humanities, culture, public health, applied ethics, bioethics, and political philosophy, as well as the general reader interested in the ethical and philosophical issues that are transforming and touching our lives. The book uniquely focuses both western and non-western approaches.