Education for the ecological transition. Relational-system thinking for the inhabitation of the Earth despite technocratic thinking

Abstract

Several sectors are affected by the ecological transition: energy, industrial, and agricultural transition; urban planning with the creation of green spaces and shared energy efficiency; sustainable and shared mobility. All these areas involve actions that must be community-based to be effective. Consequently, the participation of citizens is fundamental to the implementation of this community transformation: it is necessary to develop forms of education based on relationships and fraternity. The commitment to denounce the dramas of contemporary society requires scientific and cultural reflection aimed at formulating an ethical project for humanity, considering the socio-economic implications and the global interconnections between human beings and all living beings.

The profound transformation of reality requires broad cooperation among people, valuing and interpreting individual efforts, and moving away from the logic of self-transformation. We must move from an instrumental and individualistic logic – technocratic thinking – to a community-based logic – relational-system thinking –. From the perspective outlined by Pope Francis in his encyclical Laudato si', this essay proposes a critique of technocratic thinking and highlights elements for promoting relational thinking. The ecological transition must be interpreted as a mind-transforming experience for individuals and communities if it is to be directed toward the promotion of authentic ecological consciousness.