Exploring Ecovillager''s Perceptions'' of Nature and Uses of Technology

A Sustainable Culture? This case-study investigates the values, ideas, and actions of people living in ecovillages. These ecologically orientied communities represent an incredible storehouse of information for how humans can peacefully interact with the earth in a way that is mutually beneficial for both parties. We need to study these cooperative social formations to help us understand, adapt, and change the fundamental assumptions of our culture. Many contemporary human societies are coming face to face with the consequences of their industrial, consumer driven, and environmentally degrading lifestyles. All life on earth would benefit if our species adopted a new paradigm. Using semi-structured interviews, I met with 18 members of three Ohio and Kentucky ecovillages. I assess what “nature” means to the ecovillagers and compared their understandings with past and present perceptions to illuminate both the continuity and novelty of their worldviews. I also investigate how their simple, yet technologically advanced communities deal with the ecological issues facing humanity at the dawn of the 21st century.