Abstract
When we engage in contemplative practice, we reawaken our sense of interconnectedness with the natural world. Yet the assumption that religious perspectives are vastly different from scientific perspectives has led to the false belief that environmental science is incompatible with creative or spiritual modes of inquiry. A contemplative practitioner recognizes that science and religion can be complementary partners in environmental efforts, and this understanding is the foundation of what I am calling contemplative ecotheology. Contemplative ecotheology provides a valuable framework for holistic environmental engagement that transcends dualism (religion vs. science) and embraces unitive collaboration. Contemplative ecotheology acknowledges that everything in the cosmos is interconnected–faith, science, humanity, nature, and Divine Mystery–and it inspires dialogue with the religious or scientific other that is meaningful, mutually enriching, and transformative. This paper highlights three elements of contemplative ecotheology as a method and how it can benefit environmental discourse. These elements illustrate: (1) the importance of contemplative practice in human/nature relations; (2) the value of contemplative comparative theology as a framework for ecotheological discourse, including Christian and Hindu perspectives; (3) how contemplative dialogue between religion and environmental science can benefit public policy and inspire community action.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Ecology, Religion, Science, Spirituality, Comparative Theology, Environment, Ecotheology, Contemplation
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