Compared to the modern economic and consumption values, the Kimmerer (2014) proposes focusing on the ways people can contribute to the nature and learn from it. The author uses the experiences of her Potawatomi ancestors to show that grass, water, soil, and other gifts of the Earth can teach people how to live and interact with each other. For example, Indigenous nations were sensitive to the land, wind, and any changes in the nature, believing that their behaviors should change accordingly. Today, we tend to disregard even catastrophic expressions of environmental pollution, when the lakes and oceans are full of waste. Another example of disregarding the importance of nature is the fact that an average American recognizes the brands of companies but fails to know at least ten plants. It is also noteworthy how Kimmerer (2014) speaks about the relationships between people. The author claims that we should pay attention to the needs of others and offer care they actually need. It seems that such an approach is likely to make people more attentive and aware of their interactions with the world.
In her article, Kimmerer (2014a) emphasizes that modern people learn from teachers and academic researchers, while the majority did not understand that to keep a balance, they should also learn from the nature. Most importantly, it seems to be rational to give back to the Earth and be grateful for its gifts. For example, it is critical to know the beings we live together on the planet since this knowledge can provide many insights on how to organize one’s life and solve problems. Reciprocity should be the basis for changing the view of the world to make it more ethical, sensitive, and biocentric.
References
Kimmerer, R. W. (2014). Mishkos Kenomagwen, The Teachings of Grass. Web.
Kimmerer, R. W. (2014a). Returning the Gift. Web.