The Ecology of Wisdom: Writings by Arne Naess [Paperback]

Modern environmentalism owes a great debt to philosopher, professor, and writer Arne Naess, cofounder of the Deep Ecology movement. Here, editors Alan Drengson and Bill Devall provide a comprehensive yet accessible volume of Naess’s most groundbreaking and seminal essays, which have remained influential among environmentalists to this day.
Drawing from influences as diverse as Eastern religious practices, Gandhian nonviolent direct action, and Spinozan unity systems, Naess’s writing calls for cooperative action to protect the earth on which we dwell, encouraging individuals and communities to develop their own distinctive “ecosophies.”
These writings, full of Naess’s characteristic enthusiasm, wit, and spiritual fascination with nature, provide a look into the remarkable philosophical underpinnings of his own social and ecological activism, as well as an inspiration for all those looking to follow in his footsteps. This is an essential anthology from one of modern environmentalism’s most important and relevant voices.

“[A] well-written, thought provoking set of works from a man who is a national hero of sorts in Norway, but has yet to really make his mark here in the United States. With luck, this collection will help to change that . . . The essays written with a particularly light-hearted, even playful, tone still manage to get their point across and are a cause for reflection by the reader.” —Elephant Journal

“The Ecology of Wisdomonly hints at the breadth and power of [Naess’s] thought . . . At a time when the environment hangs in the balance and it’s tempting to give in to despair, these sturdy, hopeful writings from an ecological philosopher and peace activist are more necessary than ever.” —Orion