This landmark work, first published in 1988, offers a new perspective that recasts our understanding of science, technology, politics, religion, ecology, and education. Berry argues that our current vision of progress is misguided and has led to a disconnection from the planet. He advocates for breaking free from the 'technological trance' and fostering mutually enhancing human-Earth relationships to heal the global biosystem. The book draws on Western philosophy, Asian thought, Native American traditions, and contemporary physics and evolutionary biology to propose a biocentric approach to human progress.
In 'Ishmael', Daniel Quinn presents a unique narrative where a gorilla named Ishmael teaches a human student about the flaws in modern society's cultural myths. The book delves into themes such as human supremacy, sustainability, and global catastrophe. Ishmael distinguishes between two groups: the Takers, who believe in exploiting the Earth for their benefit, and the Leavers, who live in harmony with nature. Through their conversations, Ishmael challenges the narrator and the reader to rethink their assumptions about the world and their place in it, emphasizing the need for a new vision to save humanity and the planet from destruction[2][4][5].
This book introduces a model for human development that is both ecocentric and soulcentric. Bill Plotkin presents a blueprint for individual development rooted in the natural world, defining eight stages of human life: Innocent, Explorer, Thespian, Wanderer, Soul Apprentice, Artisan, Master, and Sage. The book offers a way to transition from an ego-centric, competitive society to an eco-centric, soul-based one that is sustainable, cooperative, and compassionate. It provides practical advice and personal stories, including those of elders Thomas Berry and Joanna Macy, to help readers grow into a more complete and genuine adulthood and eventually an elderhood of wise caring for the more-than-human world.
In 'Wild Mind: A Field Guide to the Human Psyche', Bill Plotkin argues that true wholeness and healing come from cultivating the four facets of the Self and integrating the fragmented or wounded subpersonalities that form during childhood. Rather than suppressing psychological symptoms or eliminating subpersonalities, Plotkin describes how to embody our multifaceted wild minds, commit to the largest, soul-infused story we’re capable of living, and serve the greater Earth community. The book uses a nature-based map, drawing on wisdom teachings from around the world, to illustrate the relationship between the human psyche and the natural world[2][4][5].
In 'Look to the Mountains: An Ecology of Indigenous Education,' Gregory Cajete presents a comprehensive approach to indigenous education. The book highlights the importance of cultural and ecological contexts in learning, drawing on Native American traditions and practices. Cajete discusses the interdependence of all forms of life and the need for education to reflect the long-range impact on future generations. The book includes rituals, ceremonies, and community-based learning methods that are integral to indigenous educational systems[3][5].
In 'The Parable of the Tribes', Andrew Bard Schmookler presents a thought-provoking examination of how power has shaped human history and societal development. The book uses a parable to illustrate how the presence of power inevitably leads to a competitive and often destructive dynamic among groups, influencing the course of social evolution. Schmookler argues that this fundamental aspect of human interaction has significant implications for understanding conflict, cooperation, and the future of human societies.
This book by Bill Plotkin provides phase-by-phase guidance for the descent to soul, including the dissolution of current identity, the encounter with the mythopoetic mysteries of soul, and the metamorphosis of the ego into a cocreator of life-enhancing culture. Based on the experiences of thousands of people, it illustrates each phase with stories from those he has guided and includes an in-depth exploration of Carl Jung’s Red Book. The journey is vital for the future of our species and our planet, helping individuals reconnect with the web of life and find their unique mythopoetic identity and contribution to the world[2][3][5].
This book critiques the modernity narrative as a single story of progress, development, and civilization that is expiring. It argues that modernity, driven by expansion, colonialism, and resource extraction, has created significant harm and imbalance. Andreotti calls for 'hospicing' modernity, offering palliative care to its decline while nurturing new, potentially wiser systems. The book includes thought experiments and exercises to help readers reimagine learning, unlearn harmful behaviors, and expand their capacity to handle difficult and painful issues. It emphasizes the need for humility, accountability, and a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of human and natural systems.
(Conversation recorded on September 16th, 2024) Where have all the elders gone? As the world grapples with its unfolding economic and energy crises, it can often feel like we lack capable guides to help our societies navigate these transitions. How can we cultivate ourselves as individuals to become balanced, true adults who are fully equipped to contribute to our communities, the planet, and the massive changes ahead?
In this episode, Nate is joined by eco-depth psychologist Bill Plotkin to explore the profound themes of human development, the urgent need for ecological awakening, and the importance of art and nature in navigating the crises of modern society. Plotkin also outlines his eight stages of eco-centric human development to foster a healthier future for humanity and the planet.
What circumstances have led to generations of individuals stuck in psychological adolescence? What role does the concept of the soul play in shaping our life purpose? How do we implement a cultural regeneration that aligns with the natural world and the stages of human development, ultimately helping us prioritize the health of the planet, people, and all species?
About Bill Plotkin:
Bill Plotkin, PhD, is an eco-depth psychologist, wilderness guide, and agent of cultural regeneration. As founder of southwest Colorado’s Animas Valley Institute, he has, since 1980, guided thousands of people on the journey of soul initiation and is the training director of the Soulcraft Apprenticeship and Initiation Program. He’s also been a research psychologist (studying non-ordinary states of consciousness), rock musician, and white-water river guide.
In 1979, on a solo winter ascent of an Adirondack peak, Bill experienced a “call to spiritual adventure,” leading him to abandon academia in search of his true calling. He is the author of Soulcraft: Crossing into the Mysteries of Nature and Psyche (an experiential guidebook), Nature and the Human Soul: Cultivating Wholeness and Community in a Fragmented World (a nature-based stage model of human development), Wild Mind: A Field Guide to the Human Psyche (a nature-based map of the psyche), and The Journey of Soul Initiation: A Field Guide for Visionaries, Evolutionaries, and Revolutionaries (a guidebook for the descent to soul). His doctorate in psychology is from the University of Colorado at Boulder. Visit him online at www.animas.org.
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