Why does Mr. Tesfa call the western society impoverished and unworldly?
Mr Tesfa says he can hear the Western worldview reflected in the way we talk. How do you think language can influence the way we look at the world.
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How does the Western worldview differ from that of indigenous peoples, such as that of Mr Tesfa and his ancestors? How does this affect life on earth?
All over the world, rivers and natural areas are recognised as legal entities, giving them a 'voice' in our economic system. See if you can find an example of legally recognized nature for each continent.
What could the attribution of names and identities to natural areas mean for (economic) prosperity?
The choice of words determines how we think about something. How does the emotional value of words such as 'resources', 'environment', 'sustainability', 'biodiversity' and 'climate change' influence our perception of nature?
We can change our perception through our use of language. What alternative descriptions can you think of for the terms mentioned above?
Let your imagination run wild and think of different ways to use language to create more connection with the earth and to make nature come alive.
Which natural area or element in your environment would you like to give a voice to?
What effect does 'personifying' a tree, river or cloud have on the way you experience nature?
Joanna Macy (1929), eco-philosopher, Buddhist and scientist, developed ‘The Work That Reconnects’ to reconnect with nature. Listen to the poem 'Widening Circles' that Macy translated from the poet Rainer Maria Rilke. Also try the ceremony of ‘The Council of All Beings’ to experience life on earth from a different perspective.
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