The State of the Earth

1. The State of the Earth • We will explore the environmental state of the planet. • We can identify threats to the planet. • We can explain the cumulative effect of these threats. • We can explain why this is the “11th Hour”. • We can discuss our views on this claim.

2. Earth First! • We will study the beliefs and actions of one radical environmental group. • We can explain Earth First! beliefs. • We can describe Earth First! actions. • We can discuss the view that violent action may be justified to save the planet.

3. Christianity and Environment • We will explore Christian views on the environment. • We can explain the “mastery” view of the environment. • We can explain the “stewardship” view of the environment. • We can express supported views on which of the two is more relevant for the environmental crisis today.

4. Earth Dhamma • We will explore Buddhist approaches to the environment. • We can explain the relationship between consumerism and environmental dukkha. • We can explain how meditation exercises may lead to less greed. • We can report on our environmental meditation.

5. Earth Without Humans • We will explore the idea of the earth without human presence. • We can explain earth and human timescales. • We can explain the fragility of human presence on the earth. • We can give an account of how the earth would fare in our absence. • We can discuss the view that the planet would prefer our extinction.

6. Humanism • We will explore non religious Humanist views on the environment. • We can state key Humanist beliefs. • We can discuss the view that Humanism concentrates on humans at the expense of the planet. • We can express a supported view which sees either religion or Humanism as eco-friendly.

7. Taking Action • We will explore the range of actions possible to protect the future of the planet and humans upon it. • We can identify a range of actions. • We can express a view on the practicality of each. • We can express a detailed view on whether humanity will successfully address the environmental threat or not.