Diversity is Key
by Miguel Reynal
Recognizing that "we cannot solve the problems that we have created with
the same thinking that created them"* a group of us, South and North
American educators and environmentalists established in Uruguay
Fundacion Ecos, an Educational Center on Sustainability. Through
research and education Ecos will build the capacity of South American
leaders of the different sectors to generate the changes necessary for
the transition to a sustainable society and a sustainable use of
natural resources. A new vision of society, a paradigmatic shift in
our world view is required if we are going to maintain an adequate
quality of life. To accomplish this the concept that effective and
open processes and recognition of diversity in people, ways of thinking
and acting in all personal, human, and work endeavors- as well as
local, national, and international governance- is the key mechanism
necessary to the creation and viability of a sustainable society.
The following are some of the principals that are necessary to a
sustainable society. These are: absoluteness of ecological systems,
acceptance of long term realities, acceptance of complexities as
elements of reality, recognition of diversity, avoidance of
irreversibilities and respect for singularity. I believe we should
focus our thinking on these issues and their applicability.
Finally, a sustainable society is self-financing by definition, but how
do we finance the process of change?
*Einstein
Please send questions or comments to suscon@well.com