KQED's Forum Robert Macfarlane on the Lives and Rights of Rivers
Jun 4, 2025
Robert Macfarlane, renowned nature writer and author of "Is a River Alive?", delves into the profound relationship between humans and rivers. He discusses the idea of rivers as living entities that shape both ecosystems and cultures. Macfarlane shares insights from diverse locations, highlighting the significance of indigenous perspectives and the spiritual connections people have with these waterways. He emphasizes the need for ecological awareness and community engagement in revitalizing urban rivers, offering a compelling call to respect and protect our vital lifelines.
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Rivers as Living Entities
- Seeing life in rivers challenges the view of nature as inert and shows our lives are entangled with these ecosystems.
- Considering rivers as alive opens vast philosophical and practical understanding beyond resource use.
Rivers as Living Watersheds
- A river is best defined as a gathering that seeks the sea, flowing with branches and roots like a tree.
- Rivers are interconnected watersheds, not just singular channels.
Daylight Hidden Rivers Visually
- Wherever a city is built over a river, trace the river's course on pavement with blue paint.
- This marks hidden rivers and restores awareness of their presence and importance.
