biosphere-consciousness
A developing global awareness of humanity's interdependence with Earth's ecosystems, crucial for addressing climate change and sustainability.
2 chapters across 1 book
Empathic Civilization: The Race to Global Consciousness in a World in Crisis (2009)Jeremy Rifkin
Part III of Jeremy Rifkin's 'The Empathic Civilization' explores the contemporary phase of human history termed 'The Age of Empathy,' focusing on the tension between growing global empathy and escalating environmental entropy. The section outlines chapters addressing humanity's climb to global peak empathy, the planetary crisis of resource depletion, the rise of distributed capitalism, the evolving social self, and the emergence of biosphere consciousness within a climax economy. The introduction and first chapter highlight the paradox of human history where increased empathic awareness has coincided with greater energy consumption and environmental degradation, posing a critical challenge for civilization's survival.
Chapter 15, "Biosphere Consciousness in a Climax Economy," explores the evolving understanding of the biosphere as a complex, interconnected living system, drawing on scientific and philosophical perspectives such as Gaia theory and network ecology. It emphasizes the development of a global consciousness rooted in empathy and ecological awareness, highlighting the psychological and social dimensions necessary for humanity to address environmental crises within the context of a climax economy. The chapter integrates interdisciplinary references to underscore the need for a biosphere-centered worldview to foster sustainable coexistence.