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RSA Conversations

ReGeneration Rising S2E12: Re-enchanting the Earth with David Abram

Sep 13, 2024
David Abram, a cultural ecologist and the creative director of the Alliance for Wild Ethics, dives deep into the connection between perception and the natural world. He shares insights on how sensory experiences shape our bond with Earth, promoting language that reflects our relationship with nature. Abram reflects on his journey as a modern-day magician and the lessons learned from traditional cultures. He emphasizes the significance of storytelling, oral culture, and movement as crucial elements in reconnecting humanity with the sentient Earth.
54:35

Episode guests

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Quick takeaways

  • Sensory perception and language significantly shape how individuals connect with the natural world, influencing their environmental engagement positively or negatively.
  • Rejuvenating oral culture and local storytelling fosters community ties and deepens appreciation for local ecosystems, nurturing a more profound bond with nature.

Deep dives

The Ecology of Perception and Language

The relationship between sensory perception and language plays a crucial role in how individuals interact with the environment. Sensory experiences, such as sight, sound, and touch, connect human beings to the natural world, emphasizing the importance of truly engaging with the earthly surroundings. Conversely, language can often inhibit this connection, as conventional modes of speech may obscure the inherent relationships one has with nature. By exploring alternative ways of speaking, it is possible to foster a deeper appreciation for the sentient qualities of the earth and its myriad life forms.

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