Deep Ecology Article 1

The Norwegian environmental philosopher Arne Naess (1912-2009) could be said to be the founder of what is called the ‘Deep Ecology Movement’. Nevertheless, he did not “invent” deep ecology, it existed before him as a way for humans to approach and coexist with the natural world. But he did give this ecological philosophy a name ‘Deep Ecology’ and a theoretical framework.

Fritjof Capra who articulated the ‘Web of Life’ concept in his book of the same name, said that Deep Ecology is the place where ‘science, philosophy, and spirituality meet’. Arne Naess went a step further and defined some lifestyle adjustments for those who ascribe to deep ecology principles.

 

There are a number of guiding principles relating to Deep Ecology. These principles are not meant to be dogmatic, but rather a starting point for discussion and action on deep ecological matters. Anyone who broadly agrees with the principles will see the implications of them in their daily lives. These include:

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• Appreciating the life of the natural world.

• Protecting or restoring local ecosystems.

• Consuming less.

• Addressing vital needs rather than wants.

• Attempting to live in harmony with nature and promoting community.

• Appreciating ethnic and cultural differences.

• Working to improve the standard of living for the world’s poor.

• Working to eliminate injustice to humans and other species.

• Acting non-violently in the world.

 

Deep Ecology is synonymous with the concept of thinking beyond the self so that the well-being of the natural world becomes inherent in every action. This thinking is, on first reading, immediately attractive, questioning our mode of existence, voluntarily reducing material comforts in order to rediscover abundant living through an existence that is in harmony with nature. Deep Ecology is a radical concept, requiring adherents to adopt a complete shift in their approach to living. It is in many ways a profoundly hopeful philosophy. In a time when the media put out a steady stream of planetary doom and gloom, Deep Ecology promotes solutions and a means of addressing current social and environmental crises.

 

Deep ecology is not some kind of Absolute Truth, or even that it is a finished thought process. The hope is that it will encourage more debate and advance the discussion concerning the survival and well-being of both human and natural life on Earth.

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