Journey of the Universe
From Our Cosmic Origins to Our Place in the Earth’s Ecosystem
Yale University’s Mary Evelyn Tucker challenges us to better consider our place ‘at home and abroad.’
Environmental issues are most frequently viewed through the lenses of science, policy, law, and economics; however, Yale University’s Mary Evelyn Tucker argues that in recent years, the moral and spiritual dimensions of this crisis have become more visible.
“Our current ecological challenges are such that they require the insights of the world’s religions to awaken moral passion and concern,” Tucker says. “And those voices are needed now.”
She was among the first to propose an interdisciplinary alliance between religion and ecology, based on the belief that religions are a primary source of values in any culture and that the environmental crisis we face is fundamentally a crisis of values. For instance, Buddhist teachings on interconnectedness and compassion can inspire sustainable living, while indigenous spiritual practices often emphasize respect for nature and its resources.
Dr. Tucker, a Senior Lecturer and Research Scholar at Yale, delivers a compelling talk that urges us to broaden our perspective on life's diversity. She prompts us to reflect on our origins, the evolution of life on Earth, and most importantly, the profound impact of our human behavior on the planet.
Click here to access Dr. Tucker’s talk on Religion and Ecology (grades 9-12+) and other recordings from SPI’s Earth and Environment collection.
About Story Preservation Initiative
Our Mission: Story Preservation Initiative believes in the transformative power of story to connect people around our common humanity and create a better future.
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