Spirituality and Environmental Ethics

Secular Environmental Ethics

French environmental thought often develops secular spiritual dimensions without explicit religious framework. The concept of "sobriété heureuse" (happy sobriety) promoted by Pierre Rabhi offers quasi-spiritual alternative to consumerism. This resonates in a secular society suspicious of organized religion.

Philosophers like Corine Pelluchon develop phenomenological environmental ethics based on embodied vulnerability rather than religious command. Her concept of "considération" proposes ethical relationships with nature based on shared finitude. Such approaches seek universal ethics beyond particular religious traditions.

Religious Environmental Engagement

Despite secularization, religious communities increasingly engage environmental issues. Catholic parishes implement Laudato Si's ecological conversion. Protestant churches, with historical environmental engagement, lead renewable energy transitions. Muslim communities develop halal and tayyib food networks emphasizing environmental ethics.

Buddhist centers like Plum Village, founded by Thich Nhat Hanh, became influential environmental spaces. Their emphasis on mindfulness and interbeing provides contemplative practices for environmental activists. These spiritual resources address burnout and despair common in environmental movements.