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Scholars of world religions Mary Evelyn Tucker and John Grim note, “Religions have developed ethics for homicide, suicide and genocide; now they are challenged to respond to biocide and ecocide.”  “What,” they ask, “is our moral responsibility toward future generations?.... Can religious and cultural perspectives help solve environmental challenges?"
 
 

After decades of environmental action and subsequent involvement of world religions, the ethical dimensions of the environmental crisis are becoming more obvious.

While not every activity that is ethical or moral can be legally mandated, Earth Jurisprudence asks important questions upon which World Religions might shed light.

What human behaviors are consistent with the laws of the natural world? What ethical norms support a legal framework that protects the flourishing of the Earth community?

How do the vision and values articulated in the ecological statements and activities of the world religions contribute to the health and well-being of people and eco-systems? How does an Earth jurisprudence, as a legal response, promote mutually enhancing human-Earth relationships?

 

 

WORLD RELIGIONS AND ECOLOGY IN THE NEWS

NOVEMBER, 2008: China, Global Warming, and Taoism

Here is the “Yin and Yang” of it: The carbon balance between Earth and the sky is off kilter; this causes instability and disasters. In a country where Taoist beliefs and values still hold enormous sway, a key concept of the ancient Taoist tradition is being employed  to build a more environmentally harmonious and sustainable China. Taoist temples and their masters are not only installing solar panels on their sacred temples, but they are increasingly addressing politicians and business leaders at all levels about environmental challenges. At a recent meeting in Nanjing, Taoist masters from all over China began discussion about a seven year plan for climate change action that may a leave a lasting imprint on the future of China and the world. 

For more information on this story go to: www.undispatch.com/archives/2008/11/taoism_--_guidi.php

For more information on Alliance for Religions and Conservation Seven Year plan initiative go to: www.arcworld.org/projects.asp?projectID=358


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Have you heard of a religion & ecology current event of interest? Let us know! Contact Margaret Galiardi, O.P.