Literature Review: Sacred Ecology

Title: Sacred Ecology

Author: Fikret Berkes

In his seminal work "Sacred Ecology" (Routledge, 2012), Fikret Berkes embarks on a comprehensive exploration of Indigenous communities' profound connection with their landscapes. This exploration is not merely an academic exercise but a deep dive into understanding the essence of Indigenous relationships with the environment, offering insights that could reshape contemporary perspectives on environmental management.

Berkes draws from a rich repository of both empirical data and theoretical insights. He masterfully weaves together observations from in-depth field studies, historical accounts, and socio-cultural analysis to present a compelling narrative of Indigenous relationships with their landscapes. This narrative is not merely descriptive but profoundly analytical, as Berkes examines the intricate interplay between cultural traditions, spiritual convictions, and ecological understanding in shaping these relationships.

At the core of Berkes's argument is the concept of 'sacred ecology'. He describes this as a belief system that asserts the interconnectedness of humans, animals, plants, and other natural elements as integral components of a unified whole (Berkes, 2012, p. 21). This perspective contrasts dominant Western views, which often compartmentalise nature and culture, seeing them as separate entities. In the Indigenous worldview, as articulated by Berkes, there is no such dichotomy. Instead, all elements of the universe are seen as interconnected, with each having intrinsic value and playing a critical role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.

This holistic worldview is not merely a philosophical perspective but forms the basis of a profound spiritual and emotional connection that Indigenous peoples share with their landscapes. The land is not viewed as a passive backdrop upon which human activities unfold but is instead seen as a dynamic, living entity that is deeply revered. This relationship is marked by a deep-seated respect and reverence for the natural world, reflecting a sense of stewardship rather than dominion.

Berkes (2012, p. 47) articulates this profound connection: "The land is not just a physical entity but a living, breathing being that sustains all life. It is a sacred entity, imbued with spiritual significance." This statement underscores the deeply entrenched connection that Indigenous communities have with their landscapes, viewing them not merely as resources to be exploited but as sacred entities deserving of reverence and protection.

This perspective has profound implications for environmental management. Drawing from the scholarly discourse on landscape connection, Berkes highlights the critical importance of acknowledging and respecting these spiritual and cultural connections to the landscape in practices related to environmental management.

Berkes's arguments are further reinforced by a comprehensive literature review on connectedness to nature by Ives, C.D., et al. (2017). The authors caution against over-generalizing how people connect to nature based on a limited number of cultural frameworks (Ives C.D. et al., 2017, p. 7). This insight underscores the imperative of recognising and integrating diverse cultural perspectives in understanding and managing natural landscapes.

In this context, Berkes's work serves as a valuable reminder of the need to broaden our perspectives on environmental management, moving beyond a purely utilitarian approach to one that recognises and respects the deep spiritual and emotional connections many Indigenous communities have with their landscapes. As Berkes argues, such an approach enriches our understanding of human-nature relationships and can lead to more sustainable and equitable environmental stewardship practices.

In conclusion, Berkes's (2012) "Sacred Ecology" offers a profound investigation into the intimate connections that Indigenous communities foster with their landscapes. It is a compelling call to action for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners alike to rethink prevailing paradigms of environmental management, taking into account the rich tapestry of cultural, spiritual, and ecological connections that Indigenous communities have with their landscapes. It is a testament to the potential of Indigenous knowledge systems to inform more sustainable and equitable approaches to environmental stewardship, offering valuable lessons for a world grappling with the twin challenges of biodiversity loss and climate change.

References

Berkes, F., 2012. Sacred Ecology. Routledge.

Ives, C.D., Abson, D.J., von Wehrden, H., Dorninger, C., Klaniecki, K. and Fischer, J., 2017. We are reconnecting with nature for sustainability. Journal of Environmental Management, 205, pp.169-178.