the ethics conundrum
Surprised? Who knew, right? We see values as distinct and separate - much as we see everything else in life. The truth is, values form systems and are part of an ecology that has been invisible, until now.
If you are like me, then you've been enthralled with values, but also confused. If you are trying to find clear direction, the conflicting and very different approaches might suggest something is not right or that it's incomplete. In my search, I've found several things that have proved problematic: the issue of death and killing - why is it sometimes good and sometimes bad, and how do you know? Why are there so many approaches? Are right and wrong, good and bad the best way of seeing values? What determines 'good' and 'right?' It goes on.
Systems Thinking
As we begin to actually see from a systems' perspective, the focus from a human centric lens, becomes wanting. WE are not the biggest nor the most important system. WE are but a part of a much larger whole, Gaia - the Earth. Our ethics and our morality stem from that relationship, one that has been ignored by Western civilization. Moving from human centric to LIFE centric changes everything!
If you are like me, then you've been enthralled with values, but also confused. If you are trying to find clear direction, the conflicting and very different approaches might suggest something is not right or that it's incomplete. In my search, I've found several things that have proved problematic: the issue of death and killing - why is it sometimes good and sometimes bad, and how do you know? Why are there so many approaches? Are right and wrong, good and bad the best way of seeing values? What determines 'good' and 'right?' It goes on.
Systems Thinking
As we begin to actually see from a systems' perspective, the focus from a human centric lens, becomes wanting. WE are not the biggest nor the most important system. WE are but a part of a much larger whole, Gaia - the Earth. Our ethics and our morality stem from that relationship, one that has been ignored by Western civilization. Moving from human centric to LIFE centric changes everything!
The Ecology of ethics
Explore the Earth Values card deck for Living Regeneratively
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This card deck should be used to 1) help you recognize how the Earth actually works, 2) allow you to discern more clearly so that you can actually see these dynamics and values at work, 3) begin to actually apply your new insights to your everyday work and life.
Learning to mimic nature is the first step into a real and deep relationship with her. As you sharpen your sensibilities, you will begin to see these dynamics everywhere, and that's the point. These values LIVE in our everyday awareness, but they have been relativity invisible, until now. As you notice them, you will also begin to more deeply appreciate the wondrous dance that happens before our eyes. New understanding will also arise as you begin to see the interdependencies. This process will be considerably faster if you are engaged in either a course or group coaching, where you will enjoy the insights of others. As this new way of seeing becomes second nature, you will begin to notice that you are not just an observer, but that you are in relationship with nature, in a real way. You will be able to enjoy her cleverness and compassion, you will recognize her creativity and commitment. This kind of lived engagement makes life very rich, indeed! |