Thinking the Ecological Crisis

Introduction

Abstract

A global ecological crisis cannot be merely considered a probable or distant event anymore. Both the ongoing climate change as well as the numerous scientific data available and the amount of published thematic research confirm the fact that we are currently experiencing such a crisis. It is therefore as necessary as ever to approach the present crisis from different points of view and approaches, to offer a complex understanding of the issue, avoiding possible scientistic reductionism or simplification.

Concretely, seven essays are presented in this issue, offering different perspectives on the current ecological crisis and concerns. First, Righetti’s analysis spotlights the critical-negative function of the nature-culture dualism, revealing how this conceptual divide shapes ecological thought. Then, Feltrin and González Morales focus on relevant international current topics: the former reimagines the concept of wilderness, arguing for a decolonized rewilding that fosters multispecies autonomy and transcends the pristine ideal; the latter discusses the importance of Biocultural Rights and Biocultural Ethics, underscoring the need for an integrated approach that respects diverse communities. Zamboni focuses on the preservation of inhabited territories, suggesting that rootedness is a vital source of ecology and a key to sustainable development. Carnevali unveils the hidden Spinozism in Bookchin’s philosophy, offering insights into a holistic view that bridges ecological thought and political theory. Finally, the last two papers retake the religious and theological point of view on ecological issues: Cutro examines Panikkar’s ecosophical perspective, emphasizing the transformative potential of reconnecting with nature at both individual and collective levels; and Borgoño addresses the theological significance of the Anthropocene, investigating the human role as both guardian and co-creator through technological agency.