In order to try to save the planet from total ecological collapse, we should not seek to rally behind a spiritual vision. This can be divisive, whether it be the indigenous or Easter vision of Pachamama (Mother Earth), or a monotheistic ecumenical view of nature as God’s creation which pretends that all the Western religions have more in common than they actually do. Instead, I think we need to unite behind the science in our understanding of the reality of our situation, and behind a clear alternative economic vision as our goal and the solution.
Theological conversations, debate and learning can take place within this context, but we need everybody to be engaged in this struggle, regardless of political ideology or religious beliefs.
In this day and age, there are too few Christians, especially in Northern countries and among the younger generation, and especially too few Christians who understand the severity of the ecological threat and the importance of our creation care mandate, to expect a great Christian leader to arise like MLK.
So who can lead this struggle? Who can bring order and focus to it? Scientists are not the best leaders, for while they are the best at understanding the problems, they are usually not the best at formulating right solutions. A new breed of politician, informed by good advisors on science, economics, agriculture and engineering?