Becoming ecosynchronous, part 1. The root causes of our unsustainable way of life

Abstract

The condition of modern, Western society is examined in two parts. In Part 1 the root causes of our society's unsustainable condition are considered through a new approach, becoming ecosynchronous, to discuss the unfolding of self (becoming) and being aware of events that are meaningfully related (synchronicity). The problems that confront us are first noted, including where those trends are heading, followed by a review of initiatives underway to address these problems. The limitations of a shallow ecology approach are discussed and juxtaposed with philosophical and psychological root causes of systemic failure. This includes reviews of the long-term cycles of civilizations, the decline of a sacred relationship with nature, the Western view of reality, ecopsychology, ecofeminism, sense of place and consumerism/busyness. A shift to an ecocentric position is advocated, as is an emphasis on personal development, with direction offered toward becoming more sustainable (discussed further in Part 2). Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.