Earthwise: A Guide to Hopeful Creation Care

by Calvin B. Dewitt

Earthwise is about living in harmony with the natural world around us and sharing the joy of this living.

Sadly, our ways of life in today's global economy have led to increasing land and habitat destruction, pollution, species extinction, buildup of "greenhouse gases," and other degradations of the earth. But rather than grovel and wring our hands in despair, lifelong creation care scientist Calvin B. DeWitt suggests we discover a joyful, positive attitude about working together for good in this world. Looking forward in hope, we can make changes and take positive, lasting action that is more in harmony with the way the world works and is meant to be. This book, now in its third edition, helps to provide us and our friends, neighbors, coworkers, and fellow citizens with practical information and ideas to become truly "earthwise."

Genres: Science, Theology, Environment

158 pages, Paperback

First published May 20, 2011

Reviews

[Ami McNay · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is definitely worth a read. DeWitt lays the foundation for understanding Biblical stewardship and care for our environment, why it’s important and how we can take steps as individuals and communities.

[Sic Transit Gloria · Rating 2 out of 5]

A decent concept, but taken too far. I especially disliked his misinterpretation of Scriptural metaphors as literal.

[Jaron Brandt · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The garden's service to us is implicit; service from us to the garden is explicit."

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book surprised me. With so much negativity pervading the discussion of the environment this book lived up to the subtitle--a guide to HOPEFUL creation care. Written by a well-respected environmentalist at the University of Wisconsin, I found myself encouraged by the first section which reflected on the wonders of God's creation.

I found two things helpful. First, DeWitt stays on a very basic level when discussing things and does not let his main points get bogged down in technical jargon. Secondly, DeWitt does a good job of interacting with the Biblical text and its relation to how it affects our understanding and view of creation.

If you're looking for a book to give to a friend to encourage them towards loving God through caring for his creation, this is the one!

[Patrick Walsh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mr. DeWitt offers many great insights and suggestions for living more intentionally and sustainably. This book is probably better read (and acted upon) in a group setting. Indeed it is organized and written that way.

[Jeff Bleijerveld]

Tremendous book! Brings together scripture and ecology to form a theological basis for creation care.

[Chase Pheifer]

Read chapters 1-4 and 6 (out of 7)

Read again for another engineering class the following semester after I first read it.