Ecological Identity through Dialogue (original) (raw)

Martin Buber's philosophy of dialogue offers an epistemic and ontological orientation upon which an ecological identity can be established as part of an integrated, environmental education. I consider here the significance of a relational self in establishing this ecological identity, as well as the benefits of doing so. This relational, dialogical self is developed through a comprehensive, integrated approach of nurturing dialogical capacities: becoming aware by confirmation of the other, and empathic inclusion. In turn, these capacities can be developed through a praxis of dialogue that includes artistic, contemplative, and relational pedagogical practices.