The Fabric of Faith-Based Environmentalism in Canada
Exploring the Strands of Ecological Worldviews
In: Worldviews: Global Religions, Culture, and EcologySearch for other papers by Joanne M. Moyer in
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University of Toronto Mississauga Department of Anthropology
Search for other papers by Stephen Bede Scharper in
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Abstract
As our global environmental malaise has deepened, so has interest in potential contributions by faith communities to sustainability discourses and activities. While several studies have mapped various eco-theologies and worldviews that speak to environmental problems, this research has been largely limited to Judeo-Christian and U.S.-based groups. This study explores the work of a variety of faith-based organizations (FBOs) doing environmental work in Canada, beginning to broaden the scope beyond just Christian groups. Based on interviews, focus groups, document review, and participant observation with 16 FBOs, the study presents five environmental worldview strands: Scriptural/Theological; Traditions, Values, Virtues; the New Cosmology; Nature Experience/Revelation; and Ritual. Sub-strands specific to different faith and cultural communities were also identified. These strands are considered in relation to the activities of the FBOs, and how the nature of tradition, values, and virtues may yield potential avenues for translating worldviews into individual and societal practice.
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| All Time | Past Year | Past 30 Days | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abstract Views | 718 | 82 | 6 |
| Full Text Views | 124 | 24 | 1 |
| PDF Views & Downloads | 156 | 35 | 2 |
The Fabric of Faith-Based Environmentalism in Canada
Exploring the Strands of Ecological Worldviews
In: Worldviews: Global Religions, Culture, and EcologySearch for other papers by Joanne M. Moyer in
Current site
Google Scholar
PubMed
University of Toronto Mississauga Department of Anthropology
Search for other papers by Stephen Bede Scharper in
Current site
Google Scholar
PubMed
Abstract
As our global environmental malaise has deepened, so has interest in potential contributions by faith communities to sustainability discourses and activities. While several studies have mapped various eco-theologies and worldviews that speak to environmental problems, this research has been largely limited to Judeo-Christian and U.S.-based groups. This study explores the work of a variety of faith-based organizations (FBOs) doing environmental work in Canada, beginning to broaden the scope beyond just Christian groups. Based on interviews, focus groups, document review, and participant observation with 16 FBOs, the study presents five environmental worldview strands: Scriptural/Theological; Traditions, Values, Virtues; the New Cosmology; Nature Experience/Revelation; and Ritual. Sub-strands specific to different faith and cultural communities were also identified. These strands are considered in relation to the activities of the FBOs, and how the nature of tradition, values, and virtues may yield potential avenues for translating worldviews into individual and societal practice.
| All Time | Past Year | Past 30 Days | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abstract Views | 718 | 82 | 6 |
| Full Text Views | 124 | 24 | 1 |
| PDF Views & Downloads | 156 | 35 | 2 |