Perspectives - Eco Philospher Arne Naess & Sage Lao Tzu

 

Living in harmony ......Lao Tzu possible contemporary of Confucius.(551-479 B.C.E.)

An interesting perspective of Lao Tzu indicates that - by centering 'self' in the Tao, would have the capacity to transform the world...everything finding its natural rythms and place...the unfolding of reasonance, peace, equilibrium. (Paraphrased No 37) ref 1

When in vulnerable nature, living light and traceless.....Arne Naess ref 1) 

Tendency to appreciate all life- forms rather than merely those considered beautiful, remarkable, or narrowly useful....Arne Naess.ref 2 .

 

Continuing with sketchbook works. Drawing on ecologically based ideas. Focusing on two the two main perspectives....Individuals such  as eco- philosopher, Arne Naess whose own understanding concerning the ecological impacts deriving from shallow ecology, that majors on a human-centric perspective- based primarily on the development of sustainability for human consumption alone.Whilst the deep ecology perspective considers the deeper implications for the whole realm within biodiversity systems...which considers eco-centric values...of which we are a part. The interconnectivity and intrinsic value of the whole - Aldo Leopold also discussed as the' whole'  community each being a part.....The importance of diversity within ecosystems....ultimate realisation... all things connect.

In the past most farming practices from the 1940/50s....were mono crop... using industrial herbicides/pesticides..the knock on impacts affecting wildlife -Rachel Carson discussed in The Silent Spring ...it's heartening to know theres an ongoing realisation amongst farming communities now working with natural habitats.... the re-realising of hedgerows and wild flower areas, continuing to shape the landscape in more holistic ways ....presently bringing about incremental shifts toward equilibrium and harmony of the whole.

Two excellent books for consideration - Kate Rawston - Doughnut Economics, & The Sacred Balance by David Suzuki.

Working on image...

                                     

                                       Recent  layering acrylic washes onto canvase  

I 'm also aware of the important attributes of our worlds Indigenous communities, whose ethos and values reveal the wisdom of deep ecological  interconnectivity ...

As  Chief Seattle stated-

Only when the last tree is felled,

The last river is poisoned,

The last fish is caught.....

Only then will we realise that money cannot be eaten.

References 

Lao Tzu paraphrase. No 37 

Arne Naess pg  260. No 17,18 - Deep Ecology  editor George Sessions. publisher Shambala, Boston &London  1995.