The articles in this special issue critique the separation of spirit and matter in contemporary society, particularly under capitalism, which treats nature as a resource to exploit. The authors argue for a relational ontology, viewing nature as a biosphere of integrated, interdependent systems that includes humans and the more-than-human. The articles highlight the need for holistic, spiritual approaches across diverse traditions to reconcile the dualism of economy and nature. By embracing alternative ontologies that embed spirituality at the heart of our interactions with the earth, we can foster life-sustaining relationships and planetary flourishing–recognising the earth as a living, dynamic system in which humans are but one interconnected part.
Kathryn Pavlovich (Sat,) studied this question.