
Future Ecologies
FE1.11 - Funerary Ecologies
Dec 6, 2018
Jae Rhim Lee, known for her sustainable burial innovations, joins Katrina Spade, who specializes in redefining funeral practices. They explore the interplay of death and ecology, encouraging fresh perspectives on funerary rites. From the humorous complexities of burial to innovative methods like alkaline hydrolysis, the discussion highlights urban burial dilemmas and community rituals that nurture collective grief. Insights into the historical impacts on Indigenous practices reveal the deep connections between burial, culture, and the environment.
51:16
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Quick takeaways
- The speaker's preference for cremation reflects a holistic approach to death, emphasizing ecological connections and personal desires beyond traditional burial practices.
- Mountain View Cemetery's transformation into a living space showcases the evolving role of urban landscapes in engaging with mortality and community healing rituals.
Deep dives
The Desire for Natural Return
The decision to be cremated is often motivated by a desire to return to nature, reflecting a peaceful acceptance of death. The speaker expresses a personal wish to merge with the natural world rather than remain confined in a traditional burial. This desire is exemplified by a preference for being spread in environments like the ocean, which is considered a final home linking humanity back to its origins. The speaker highlights a philosophical view that aligns personal death practices with a broader ecological perspective, suggesting that nature does not mandate the constraints of burial traditions.
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