How can we start seeing large problems that are abstract, long-term, predictable, and structural, in a way that is helpful and conducive to change? The first step is to change the way we see ourselves in relation to the world around us. What do I mean by this? Let’s look at the differences between Anthro (Human-centered thinking) and Eco (Ecologically centered thinking):
| Anthro Thinking | Eco Thinking |
|---|---|
| I am an independent person, who doesn’t need others to succeed. | I am a living person, intricately connected to a greater community, environment, and set of systems. |
| Nature provides us with resources which can be harvested and turned into commodities. | Taking from the natural world must be done in a way that is respectful and facilitates replenishment for the next generations. |
| Humans exist to dominate and commandeer the natural world in our favor. | Humans are part of a greater system that enables life to be possible. We cannot destroy that system without destroying ourselves and everything else. |
| We must save the planet, the developing world, and our families from imminent environmental collapse and climate change. | We must do the work to understand our role, privilege, and responsibility in this destructive system, so we can interrupt it and allow more sustainable solutions to take root. |
| I am powerless as an individual to influence and make change in the world. I am not responsible for the state of the world, and fixing problems that were created before I was even born. | My actions have ripple effects in the greater ecology and community, and it is my responsibility with this knowledge, to be helpful, and a good listener and follower to those who have more knowledge and experience, so my impact in the world can be positive. |
| Money, power, and prestige ultimately make the decisions in society. | No system of finance, power, or social caste is permanent. Sometimes we have to be the first to stand alone in advocacy of what’s needed and right in the world. |
These are some simple ways to start seeing ourselves from an ecological mindset, as opposed to an anthropocentric one. Some other benefits of shifting this mindset are that we can feel less alone in the world and more connected to others in a helpful way.
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