Ecocentrism Defined:
Ecocentrism is a term used to denote a nature-centered approach to life rather than a human-centered approach. Ecocentrism embraces the importance of human life, yet it sees its importance embedded in a larger, more complex, and ultimately more important context: the Earth system.
One of the central components of an ecocentric perspective is the realization that we are completely embedded in nature. For instance, ponder these questions. Where does the atmosphere end and you begin? Is it right at the openings to the mouth and nose? Doesn’t that seem arbitrary? The atmosphere is within the body and outside the body. There is no dividing line between the atmosphere in your body and the atmosphere within the larger planetary body. It is a continuum of interconnectedness.
Ecocentrism and Foods:[private]
Human life is absolutely dependent on food. Without it we would not have the necessary ingredients to function as complex organisms. We are made of the elements of the Earth. This is an absolutely vital realization for awakening an ecocentric perspective.
It is my belief that the realization of inter-being with the Earth can become stronger and more visceral through the conscious consumption of whole fresh foods. This may be due to the fact that whole fresh foods resemble how they are found in nature and thus reminds us that the food we are eating came from the natural world. Heavily processed foods on the other hand, such as boxed cereal, pasta, etc., bring to mind images of grocery stores and factories, and thus may contribute to a more human-centric perspective. This is not necessarily bad, I am merely pointing out the potential differences.
Try and See:
So I encourage you to test my hypothesis. Make a meal made of whole fresh foods such as a salad with spinach, avocado, tomato, olives, and a dressing made of lemon juice, blueberries, Celtic sea salt, and cilantro, then really connect visually with the food as you prepare and eat it. What thoughts arise as you do this? What feelings come up?
My hope is that through this process we can deepen our feeling of connection with the Earth and thereby broaden and expand our awareness of ecocentrism.
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About Tristan Anderson
