Our world is facing an existential crisis of our own making. We have been living under the guise of the Taker culture, a system built on the concept of humanity’s dominion over nature, with an unyielding hunger for growth and expansion, often at the cost of our planet. Inspired by the ideas of Daniel Quinn’s seminal work, “Ishmael,” this blog post calls for a radical shift in our thinking—a shift from being Takers to becoming Leavers, from exploiters of the Earth to its stewards.
This transition involves two pivotal processes: The Great Forgetting and The Great Remembering.
- The Great Forgetting involves relinquishing our deeply ingrained Taker mindset. This is the worldview that sees humanity as the ultimate force, separate from and superior to the natural world. It’s a perspective that has led to the relentless exploitation of our planet’s resources, causing environmental degradation and a burgeoning climate crisis.
- On the flip side, The Great Remembering requires us to rediscover and reembrace our inherent connection to nature. To see ourselves not as conquerors, but as integral parts of the Earth’s ecosystem. This means acknowledging that we are, fundamentally, a part of nature—dependent on it, responsible for it, and answerable to it.
So, how do we enact these changes at various levels?
- Individual Level:
Every change begins with the individual. We must question our consumption patterns, strive for sustainability in our daily routines, and commit to lifelong learning about the Earth and its ecosystems. Reading, meditating, gardening, or even a walk in the woods can be steps towards rekindling our relationship with nature. - Local Level:
Communities can drive change. Promote local agriculture, participate in community cleanup drives, or create urban green spaces. Local schools and institutions should incorporate environmental education to foster a deep respect for the planet among future generations. - Regional Level:
At a regional level, it’s essential to implement policies that prioritize sustainability. Incentives for renewable energy, strict regulations against deforestation, and emphasis on public transportation are just a few examples. Collaboration between neighboring cities or states can amplify the impact. - Global Level:
Global cooperation is paramount to tackle a crisis that knows no borders. International treaties to combat climate change, global efforts to protect biodiversity, and shared commitments to sustainable development are crucial.
This transition won’t be easy. Inevitably, there will be resistance, especially from businesses and industries rooted in the Taker culture. However, by applying social pressure, advocating for greener policies, and supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability, we can compel these entities to adapt to a Leaver mindset.
If we fail to transition to a Leaver culture, the consequences will be catastrophic. We risk irrevocably damaging our planet and compromising the livelihoods of future generations. As the Bajorans of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine understood in their reverence for the Prophets, a balance between technological progress and spiritual connection to the land can lead to a harmonious society.
We are at a crossroads. The path we choose now will determine not just our future but the future of countless generations to come. Let us choose wisely. Let us remember our place in the web of life. Let’s make The Great Forgetting and The Great Remembering our shared journey towards a sustainable future.
As we walk this path, we will inevitably err and falter. But as we correct our course and continue, we will embody the Erratic Retaliator Strategy, a time-tested method that encourages respect and discourages harm. Let us adapt and grow, not just for our own survival, but for the health of the entire planet.
We are not just takers. We can also be leavers. We can be stewards. The choice is ours.
