Ecological Wisdom
The Five Principals of Ecopsychology
1. ENERGYEverything depends on
constant exchange of energy.
ECOLOGY: All lifeforms and biomes depend on constant exchange of energy, which comes in different forms such as circulation of air and water around the planet, bio-geochemical cycles, and resource exchange. Every lifeforms energy and resources are finite.
PSYCHOLOGY: The ecology of the human psyche is a constant exchange of energy as expressed through our narratives, behavior, and practices that can be as nutritious as they can be toxic toward each other and the planet. We too have finite resources and energy; it matters the energy our narratives permeate the world with.
2. DIVERSITYAll ecosystems require diversity to flourish.
ECOLOGY: All ecosystems require diversity to be able to respond to uncertainty, detect and optimize opportunities (that come from energy exchange), and develop resilience.
PSYCHOLOGY: The human ecosystem requires psychological diversity to be able to respond to uncertainty, detect and optimize opportunities (that come from examining narrative energy exchange), and develop resilience.
3. WASTE, DECAY AND RENEWALThere is no waste in nature but lots in
unexamined human behavior and practices.
ECOLOGY: There is no waste in nature due to constant decay and renewal processes. Matter is constantly being decomposed and re-purposed for use elsewhere.
PSYCHOLOGY: Humans can learn to psychologically decompose detrimental narratives, attitudes, and behaviors.
5. CHANGE AND ASSIMILATIONChange is inevitable.
ECOLOGY: All lifeforms, environs, and linked systems evolve or undergo change throughout their life history or life cycle.
PSYCHOLOGY: Humans evolve by changing detrimental narratives, behavior, and practices.
4. RELATIONSHIPEverything is in relationship in various ways.
ECOLOGY: Planetary processes, cycles, environs, and lifeforms are always in various degrees of relationships that make for a livable planet.
PSYCHOLOGY: Human narratives are enacted on others and the planet until examined and reconfigured. Our narratives and practices matter for how we can be in a different relationship with ourselves and a shared world.