Learning Again to Read the “Book of Nature”: A Corrective to Ecophobia

In recent years, scholars have identified the phenomenon of ecophobia which, according to the literary theorist Simon C. Estok, can be understood as “a uniquely human psychological condition that prompts antipathy toward nature.” This essay considers ecophobia as a spiritual condition in need of correction. The author argues that the fourth-century Augustine of Hippo and twelfth-century Hugh of St. Victor offer resources for contemporary spiritual seekers to respond to this ecophobic tendency in contemporary society through reading the “book of nature.” The essay concludes with suggestions about how concrete practices can support such renewed nature literacy.