Ecodharma
Buddhist Teachings for the Ecological Crisis
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- $11.99
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- $11.99
Publisher Description
How can we respond urgently and effectively to the ecological crisis—and stay sane doing it?
This landmark work is simultaneously a manifesto, a blueprint, a call to action, and a deep comfort for troubling times. David R. Loy masterfully lays out the principles and perspectives of Ecodharma—a Buddhist response to our ecological predicament, introducing a new term for a new development of the Buddhist tradition.
This book emphasizes the three aspects of Ecodharma:
practicing in the natural world,
exploring the ecological implications of Buddhist teachings,
and embodying that understanding in the eco-activism that is needed today.
Within these pages, you’ll discover the powerful ways Buddhism can inspire us to heal the world we share. Offering a compelling framework and practical spiritual resources, Loy outlines the Ecosattva Path, a path of liberation and salvation for all beings and the world itself.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Buddhist teacher Loy (A New Buddhist Path) provides a well-researched discourse on the concept of "ecodharma" using Buddhist spiritual traditions to respond to worldwide ecological disaster. Loy explains that Buddhism's principle of dukkha (individual suffering) and enlightenment may seem unrelated to a global eco-crisis, but he argues that Buddhists need to acknowledge the interdependence of environmental issues with social issues such as racism, classism, and neocolonialism. With urgency, he writes that human civilization is a collective dukkha that requires social transformation, and to that end, he encourages reducing consumption of animal products, thereby reducing the harmful effects of factory farming. He also advises that "walking the ecosattva path" involves breaking through institutional structures of economic greed, participating in social engagement, and committing oneself to the well-being of other people and other species. The book's second section comprises appendices, descriptions of dharma principles, and advice on practical steps to address climate change, such as limiting the use of products and services connected to fossil fuels, refurbishing energy-inefficient houses, and taking part in demonstrations. Although a small part of the book includes discussion of specific traditions that will be too dense for non-Buddhists, Loy's general advice will be useful to all readers. With an abundance of background and detailed explanations of teachings, Loy's book will help Buddhist readers understand and address ecological devastation.