Merry Meet

Gaia theory actually consists of a set of different theories. Essentially, Gaia believers assert that the Earth itself is a living organism. People have viewed Gaia from religious and political perspectives. Gaia includes evolutionary beliefs in its branches.

Formally proposed initially by a chemist named Lovelock, it was originally put forth as a hypothesis in the process of scientific ideas. Now, many hold it as a theory. These complex network of sub-theories actually encompass humanity’s place in the world, and even include the internet. The tendencies, in my opinion, are borderline Humanist and promising as far as how we could potentially treat our planet and new planets.

Most important from a pagan perspective is the name behind the actual theory. Gaia is a Greek face of a mother goddess/Earth goddess. She is depicted in many ways in contemporary times, but always embodies the elements of nature and seems to grow out of the ground and into the sky.

My own personal views on the Gaia theory echo many of my other spiritual views–primarily, I agree that we should treat our planet and our environment well, and that we are not the ‘owners’ of Earth, merely her caretakers. I also believe that representations of Gaia are positive images. Too often, female new age believers, pagans, hippies, and other such lovers of nature are treated as stereotypes. Since Gaia is ‘acceptable’ as a Greek goddess, she is perhaps more universally accepted.

What do you think? How does our planet fit in to your beliefs?

Trackback URI | Comments RSS