Asks why current practices of technology negatively impact humans and the earth and how we can gain a holistic understanding so technology practices can be changed to support the environment. The Practice of Technology explores the narrative themes of modern industrial technology that reveal the underlying agenda of modern culture, which is to redesign the human and natural worlds to conform to the monoculture models of Western society that are embedded in industrial paradigms and practices. The author argues that ecological and social responsibility should be built into the design of new technology practices based on ecosophy (ecological wisdom) that enable us to harmonize with our specific place and ecological context. Root metaphors and mythologies of the West are examined so as to transcend the modern-postmodernist debate that devalues human life and the natural world. Drengson explains how our current problems, such as the environmental crisis, violence, social injustice, dehumanization, and alienation cannot be diagnosed, let alone cured, without understanding the role of technological forces and activities in modern civilization.

The Practice of Technology: Exploring Technology, Ecophilosophy, and Spiritual Disciplines for Vital Links

Science & Math

Drengson, Alan

Technology

State Univ of New York Pr

This book explores the narrative themes of Western industrial technology that reveal the underlying agenda of Modern culture. The aim is to redesign the human and natural world to conform to the monoculturing development models of Western society. These models are embedded in industrial paradigms and practices. The author describes alternative technology practices that emphasize ecological and social responsibility as part of the design process. These alternative practices take many diverse forms so as to harmonize with local ecological communities. Root metaphors and myths of the West are examined as part of the modern-postmodern bind that alienates humans from the natural world. The author explores how our current problems, such as the environmental crisis, violence, social injustice, dehumanization, and alienation cannot be diagnosed, let alone cured, without understanding the role of technological forces and activities in Modern civilization. He outlines ways! in which our technology practices can be redesigned for deeper and more abiding values and higher quality of life. The Modern idea of progress is redefined to emphasize improvement in the quality of all our relations, rather than only GDP. The spiritual, aesthetic and moral dimensions of the world are included in a sustainable progressive vision that stresses deepening our selves and experience, rather than seeking to control each other and the world.

State University of New York Press

"In this groundbreaking anthology, the author offers new hope for those who love trees and forests. These essays are by leading experts. This work draws on the knowledge of indigenous people and the traditional role that forests and trees have played in their lives. It shows that sustainable forestry and conservation is possible. The authors also cover the role of trees in global warming." - BellaOnline, Connie KrochmalThere is an emerging revolution in wild forest relationships. Wild foresting has evolved from ecoforestry, going far beyond merely having a minimum impact on the world, to sustaining and promoting forest health, along with biological and cultural diversity. Wild foresting promotes the responsible use of forests, connects indigenous knowledge systems, and unites a great variety of local practices tailored to unique forests around the world.Prize-winning experts dedicated to reconciliation in human–wild forest relationships have contributed their stories to this comprehensive, in-depth anthology. The authors give accounts of how wild foresting is being practiced around the world, with such diverse activities as:  Wild farming Wild crafting Adventure therapy Restoration Permaculture Ecosystem restoration Education Wild Foresting is presented in eight thematic sections that discuss topics as varied as tree meditation, wild humans, and ecophobia. Case studies from the Amazon, Australia, Norway, and Thailand illustrate how wild foresting principles are adapted to different cultures and how emerging practices are fusing ancient knowledge systems with contemporary ecological studies.Wild Foresting is a fascinating and informative walk in the woods for everyone concerned about biodiversity, ancient forests, indigenous cultures, and endangered species.Alan Drengson is professor emeritus of philosophy at the University of Victoria, an author, and one of the founders of the Ecoforestry Institute. Duncan Taylor is an assistant professor of environmental studies at the University of Victoria, the founder of Earth Day Canada, and an author. Drengson and Taylor are co-editors of Ecoforestry: The Art and Science of Sustainable Forest Use (New Society Publishers).

Wild Foresting: Practicing Nature's Wisdom

Politics & Social Sciences

Taylor, Duncan

Social Sciences

New Society Publishers

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