Simple in Means, Rich in Ends: Deep Ecology in Theory and Practice

green blue: Green Print, 1990. Paperback. Good. The deep ecology movement is one of the most vibrant social and philosophical movements of the age. It is a resistance movement against the domination of nature by humans, and a search for meaning in a materialistic and nihilistic world. It has challenged and transformed environmental thinking in North America: now its ideas are spreading rapidly to Britain. In this book, Bill Devall outlines the simple philosophical basis of deep ecology and applies its insights to everyday life. He shows how we can enrich our lives without impoverishing the Earth. He describes ways we can explore our "ecological self", engage in effective political action, and apply the principles of deep ecology in our careers or at work. He shows how readers can adopt a practical environmental ethic within their own religious or philosophical traditions. What does deep ecology have to say about eating fresh food rather than frozen? About ecological balance in your own backyard? About lifestyles and living standards? About emotional links with our natural environment? These and many questions like them are addressed in the context of an overall and persuasive philosophy, a subtle blend of the political and the spiritual. Deep ecology is a way, a practice. It is living at one with the Earth. As Bill Devall puts it, "Nothing forced, nothing violent, just settling into our place." Bill Devall teaches sociology at Humboldt State University, Arcata, California.