10. Contemplative Studies of the 'Natural' World
Living Earth Community May 1, 2020 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.11647/obp.0186.10 via Semantic Scholar
Summary
David Haskell argues that contemplative practice—repeated, open-ended attention to the natural world—can unite scientific and ethical perspectives on ecological issues. By fostering deep appreciation for nature's beauty, such engagement provides a foundation for ethical action that is informed by scientific understanding.
Study at a glance
| Design | theoretical or philosophical paper |
|---|---|
| Key finding | Contemplative participation in the community of life deepens ecological aesthetics, which integrates scientific knowledge with ethical action. |
Abstract
To build a bridge between scientific and ethical perspectives on ecological issues, David Haskell advocates for contemplative exercise, in the sense of repeated, open-ended attention. Contemplative participation within the community of life deepens one’s sense of ecological aesthetics, and such appreciation for the beauty of nature provides an integrative ground for ethical actions informed by scientific knowledge.