Introducing Ecofeminist Theologies

Introductions in Feminist Theology #12

by Heather Eaton

This book is about ecofeminism and its encounter with theology, predominantly that of Christian theology in Euro-western contexts. It introduces and explores ecofeminism and the encounter. The goal is to understand the significance and implications of ecofeminism and its contribution and challenge to theology. A further goal is to assist ecofeminist theology, or theologies, to be more effective in preventing ecological ruin, assisting women's struggles for freedom and supporting the flourishing of all life on earth.

Ecofeminism represents ways of discerning associations of many kinds between the feminist and ecological movements, and between the oppression and domination of both women and the earth. Ecofeminism is an insight, referring to critical analyses, political actions, historical research, intuitions and ideals. The ecological crisis is creating a pivotal moral and religious challenge, and new contexts for theology. There is a renewed spiritual sensitivity towards the natural world. We are in a time of a spiritual awakening, wherein the earth and all life are experienced, as sacred, where it is possible to experience awe and wonder, and encounter the ineffable. Ecofeminist theologies are at the intersection of these ideas and experiences. They are the efforts of particular people who see and experience possibilities for greater life, more justice and freedom. They do not accept that injustice and ecological ruin are inevitable. Ecofeminist efforts are directed towards reducing further ecological and social devastation, and awakening consciousness to the immense beauty and elegance of all life on this fragile yet awesome blue-green planet.

Genres: Feminism, Spirituality, Theology, Philosophy

152 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

Reviews

[Sam · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an interesting and insightful review of ecofeminism and theology, primarily Christian theology, ranging from defining what ecofeminism is, where it came from, and how it developed to how it sits within Christian theology and how the two can work together. The introduction essays to ecofeminism are particularly interesting as they show how it formed in a natural way as women recognized the greater impact that human damage to the environment had on female and other minority groups and how the patriarchy was at least partially driving these impacts through capitalism, power, and greed. Each chapter consists of separate essays/texts that cover the different aspects dealt with by the chapter with concluding remarks that bring things together. There is a lot of weight given to the Christian theology side of things which is a shame as I can imagine that ecofeminism would sit better within other religious theologies better. But one suspects that is probably the subject of other volumes. Overall, a pretty insightful and accessible read.