A seminar on the Philosophy of Ecology was held at the Khar Branch of New Acropolis on Sunday, 22nd November 2015. The seminar, attended by 20 participants, allowed for reflection and appreciation of the environmental challenges we are facing globally and explored its symptoms, causes and possible remedies.
Perhaps the key lies in man’s ability to grasp his own interconnectedness with Nature, resulting in the recognition of our own role and responsibility towards the animal, plant and mineral kingdoms. It is evident that in addition to isolated projects such as clean-up drives, composting, etc. the real urgency lies in changing our internal attitude; to realize that we are an integral part of nature, and must therefore align our priorities and choices to nature’s laws. To think that we can find solutions for nature (without recognizing that the solution necessarily includes changing ourselves) seems to stem from the misdirected perspective that nature is somehow separate from us. Such solutions will remain temporary and superficial.
Through practical exercises, excerpts from the film “Samsara”, and examples from Native American tradition, the discussion highlighted this unique sense of connectedness with nature and the environment. The seminar was concluded with a practical composting demonstration.
