Juliet Bennett
The University of Sydney, Sociology, Post-Doc
- The University of Sydney, Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies, Graduate Studentadd
- Dr Juliet Bennett is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Sydney Centre for Healthy Societies (SCHS), Faculty of Art... moreDr Juliet Bennett is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Sydney Centre for Healthy Societies (SCHS), Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, and Charles Perkins Centre (CPC), at The University of Sydney.
Juliet’s research draws connections across scales and subjects to activate co-creative and systemic interventions for personal and planetary wellbeing.
She is currently working on SCHS and CPC’s joint research program on the social life of food and nourishment applying critical social theory to systems of food production and consumption.
Juliet’s doctoral research developed a new inroad to process philosophy and a tool for to assist in its application for sustainable futures. This thesis showed how nesting “static thinking” within “process thinking” connects relational worldviews, contextual economics, and participatory politics, which together help to mitigate the global systemic crisis (with global inequality and climate change its most urgent symptoms).
Juliet also has an MPhil and MA in peace and conflict studies, through which she explored structural violence with a focus on themes of narratives, religion and education. Juliet has taught undergraduate units in narratives and peace studies at Lenoir Rhyne University in North Carolina, and postgraduate units in peace and conflict studies at The University of Sydney.
Prior to joining SCHS, Juliet worked at Sydney Policy Lab as Collaborative Research Manager, applying community-led research and policymaking methods for improved social outcomes. Juliet also spent five years as Executive Officer and Acting Director of Sydney Peace Foundation organising the annual Sydney Peace Prize. These experiences have encouraged Juliet to connect traditional academic research with applied policy research, and communicate findings for diverse audiences.edit
This article provides a novel inroad to the field of process philosophy and its application. It does this by elucidating the relationship between two modes of thought—static and process thinking—as a key to cocreating ecological... more
This article provides a novel inroad to the field of process philosophy and its application. It does this by elucidating the relationship between two modes of thought—static and process thinking—as a key to cocreating ecological civilization. Static and process modes of thought are conceptualized in terms of five “basic orientations”: abstract and context, closed and open, isolating and relational, passive and generative, one-dimensional and multidimensional. Inspired by the work of Alfred North Whitehead, Arran Gare, and Julie Nelson, these dynamic dualisms are resolved by nesting static perspectives within process-relational contexts. This article argues that “hegemonic static thinking” is guiding decision-making at root of global crises. While also avoiding “dualistic process thinking,” “encompassing process thinking” that includes and transcends static thinking is posited as a mode of thought conducive to more ecological and community-oriented decision-making across multiple sca...
Research Interests:
The increase in zoonotic viruses (transferring from animals to humans) from SARS to Ebola, HIV, Zika (Bell et al. 2004) and now COVID-19 is inextricably linked to humanity’s continuing expansion and impact on the planet. Climate chaos... more
The increase in zoonotic viruses (transferring from animals to humans) from SARS to Ebola, HIV, Zika (Bell et al. 2004) and now COVID-19 is inextricably linked to humanity’s continuing expansion and impact on the planet. Climate chaos resulting from greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions accumulating in the atmosphere is predicted to amplify the future pandemics, socio-economic and ecological crises (Watts et al. 2018). Tackling the roots of the COVID-19 pandemic calls into question the industrialised socio-political-economic systems that assume limitless growth in consumption and production. The urge to ‘return to normal’ remains stuck in growth economics. Meanwhile innovative cities like Amsterdam and countries such as New Zealand embrace contextual alternatives. This article identifies a few ways that Australia may re-orientate their economy for post-coronavirus (and post-bushfires) recovery so to help prevent future pandemics and ecological catastrophes associated with a return to business-as-usual.
Research Interests:
Grounded in process metaphysics, this paper develops a theory of “peace politics,” emphasising the co-creative agency of social actors within the limitations of their material and historical contexts, and the possibilities for changes in... more
Grounded in process metaphysics, this paper develops a theory of “peace politics,” emphasising the co-creative agency of social actors within the limitations of their material and historical contexts, and the possibilities for changes in ideas and actions to build peace with justice. This political theory emphasises the participation of “people-in-communities” and “communities of communities” in bringing about social change. This paper shows how such a political theory enables the de-polarisation of left and right politics, and transcends pro/anti-capitalist divides. The dominant left-right political associations of Capitalism (with the right), Anticapitalism and Marxism (with the left), Neoliberalism (with the right) and Social Democracy (with the left) are considered, and a more nuanced reality brought to light. It is argued here that peace politics does not seek a political revolution or superficial reform. Instead it seeks an integrative transformation of modes of thought, behav...
Research Interests:
This thesis cross-fertilises process philosophy and peace studies by exploring the ways in which process philosophers extend and strengthen peace scholars’ outlines of a paradigm of/for peace. The value of such a paradigm is illustrated... more
This thesis cross-fertilises process philosophy and peace studies by exploring the ways in which process philosophers extend and strengthen peace scholars’ outlines of a paradigm of/for peace. The value of such a paradigm is illustrated through the example of the climate crisis, showing how process thinking and process metaphysics intervene at its roots. In making this argument, the “static-process framework” is developed as an inroad to process philosophy and a tool to assist with its application. This framework depicts tensions between two modes of thought—static and process thinking—according to five “basic orientations”: abstract/context, closed/open, isolating/relational; passive/generative; one/multi-dimensional. Process thought, as expounded here, resolves these dynamic oppositions by nesting static thinking within process thinking. Through a process lens, the climate crisis is established as symptomatic of a “global systemic crisis” connected to social and economic systems obscured by static-biased thinking and the assumptions of static metaphysics (epistemologies, ontologies and cosmologies) not nested in process contexts. This is seen, for example, in the elevation of abstract measures (such as “The Economy” and quantifiable aspects of life) over concrete real-world experiences, relationships and processes (such as feelings and non-quantifiable aspects of life). The research shows how process thinking depolarises left and right political ideologies, supplements the goal of GDP growth with improvements to human and planetary wellbeing, and unites science and religion through a narrative of cosmological, political and community participation. By drawing new connections between process philosophy and peace studies, and applying emerging insights to the climate crisis, this thesis sheds new light on modes of thought and metaphysics for building a peaceful, just and sustainable future.
Research Interests:
In this chapter the Ngarrindjeri Being Heard, a group of Ngarrindjeri youth, collaborate with Juliet Bennett, a “non-Indigenous” Australian, to explore some of the ways that tourism projects can contribute to educating for social and... more
In this chapter the Ngarrindjeri Being Heard, a group of Ngarrindjeri youth, collaborate with Juliet Bennett, a “non-Indigenous” Australian, to explore some of the ways that tourism projects can contribute to educating for social and ecological justice in Australia. As a researcher of peace and conflict studies, Juliet opens the chapter, introducing the Camp Coorong project and recent changes experienced by the Murray Darling System. The chapter proceeds with a transcription of the voices of the Ngarrindjeri Elders and community collected by the Ngarrindjeri Being Heard and presented in their documentary Nukkan.Kungun.Yunnan. Following this powerful statement of concern, Juliet uses narrative inquiry as a methodology to explore connection between the Ngarrindjeri voices and the voices of others who aspire to address global social and ecological challenges. Approaching this topic as a collaborative enquiry provides an effective way for our cross-cultural perspectives to be shared, in pursuit of our common goals.
Research Interests:
Although a modus operandi throughout history, the passing down of beliefs and values from parent to child is a practice that must now be challenged. Drawing a connection between fundamentalist religious beliefs and inter-gener- ational... more
Although a modus operandi throughout history, the passing down of beliefs and values from parent to child is a practice that must now be challenged. Drawing a connection between fundamentalist religious beliefs and inter-gener- ational violence, this paper examines an ethical dilemma that lies at its crux: on the one hand, the peaceful intentions of fundamentalist believers, and on the other a number of violent consequences for individuals, society, and the world. Applying interdisciplinary religious and peace theory scholarship to the case of Christian fundamentalism in Australia, a number of intertwining issues sur- rounding religion and education are explored. Should religion be taught to chil- dren? What is the difference between indoctrination and education? Is some enculturation desirable? Who decides? Do children have a right to choose their own religion? Do parents have a right to teach them theirs? Is indoctrination avoidable? Is neutrality of the teacher attainable? Does a...
Research Interests:
This book presents peer-reviewed texts from the International Peace Research Association’s Ecology and Peace Commission: M.I. Abazie-Humphrey (Nigeria) reviews “Nigeria’s Home-Grown DDR Programme”; C. Christian and H. Speight (USA)... more
This book presents peer-reviewed texts from the International Peace Research Association’s Ecology and Peace Commission: M.I. Abazie-Humphrey (Nigeria) reviews “Nigeria’s Home-Grown DDR Programme”; C. Christian and H. Speight (USA) analyse “Water, Cooperation, and Peace in the Palestinian West Bank”; T. Galaviz (Mexico) discusses “The Peace Process Mediation Network between the Colombian Government and the April 19th Movement”; S.E. Serrano Oswald (Mexico) examines “Social Resilience and Intangible Cultural Heritage: Case Study in Mexico”; A. F. Rashid (Pakistan) and F. Feng (China) focus on “Community Perceptions of Ecological Disturbances Caused During Terrorists Invasion and Counter-insurgency Operations in Swat, Pakistan”; M. Yoshii (Japan) examines “Structure of Discrimination in Japan’s Nuclear Export” and finally, S. Takemine (Japan) discusses “‘Global Hibakusha’ and the Invisible Victims of US Nuclear Testing in the Marshall Islands”.
Research Interests:
Addressing global environmental challenges from a peace ecology perspective, the present book offers peer-reviewed texts that build on the expanding field of peace ecology and applies this concept to global environmental challenges in the... more
Addressing global environmental challenges from a peace ecology perspective, the present book offers peer-reviewed texts that build on the expanding field of peace ecology and applies this concept to global environmental challenges in the Anthropocene. Hans Günter Brauch (Germany) offers a typology of time and turning points in the 20th century; Juliet Bennett (Australia) discusses the global ecological crisis resulting from a “tyranny of small decisions”; Katharina Bitzker (Canada) debates “the emotional dimensions of ecological peacebuilding” through love of nature; Henri Myrttinen (UK) analyses “preliminary findings on gender, peacebuilding and climate change in Honduras” while Úrsula Oswald Spring (Mexíco) offers a critical review of the policy and scientific nexus debate on “the water, energy, food and biodiversity nexus”, reflecting on security in Mexico. In closing, Brauch discusses whether strategies of sustainability transition may enhance the prospects for achieving sustainable peace in the Anthropocene.
Research Interests:
Introduction: peace matters, tourism matters / Lynda-ann Blanchard and Freya Higgins-Desbiolles
This is the first of two volumes based on peer reviewed and thoroughly revised scientific presentations, most of them initially discussed during the sessions of the Ecology and Peace Commission (EPC) at the International Peace Research... more
This is the first of two volumes based on peer reviewed and thoroughly revised scientific presentations, most of them initially discussed during the sessions of the Ecology and Peace Commission (EPC) at the International Peace Research Association (IPRA) 50th Anniversary Conference in Istanbul in August 2014.
Research Interests:
This thesis applies narrative as theory and method to explore a growing body of interdisciplinary scholarship that connects a holistic and process understanding of the world (a “New Story”) with social and ecological justice (or “positive... more
This thesis applies narrative as theory and method to explore a growing body of interdisciplinary scholarship that connects a holistic and process understanding of the world (a “New Story”) with social and ecological justice (or “positive peace”). First, the indirect violence of global poverty and environmental destruction are examined in terms of the dissipation of individual responsibility amid political, economic and social institutions. Second, a connection is made between these structural forms of violence and one-dimensional narratives. Drawing from an argument shared by process thinkers Charles Birch, Alan Watts and Thomas Berry, I critique the “Old Story” of onedimensional religious narratives, and one-dimensional reductionistic narratives of the “Modern Story”. These stories are contrasted with a multi-dimensional and ecological worldview that Berry calls a “New Story”, which narrates an understanding of the self, humanity and the cosmos as one interconnecting process. This...
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
This article explores the contribution of Alan Watts’ ‘dramatic model of the universe’ to the pursuit of peace. It locates Watts’ critique of dominant Western worldviews alongside process philosophers, ecologists and peace theorists who... more
This article explores the contribution of Alan Watts’ ‘dramatic model of the universe’ to the pursuit of peace. It locates Watts’ critique of dominant Western worldviews alongside process philosophers, ecologists and peace theorists who have made similar claims. It focuses on Watts’ proposition that understanding the ‘self’ to be a ‘skin-encapsulated ego’ is a root cause of many of humanity’s biggest problems, not least the destruction of the environment. According to Watts, a more satisfying worldview understands the self to be a process, inseparable from the cosmological, evolutionary and ecological processes out of which it has emerged. Watts refers to this as a ‘dramatic’ model of the universe. He contrasts this with the ‘ceramic’ and ‘fully-automatic’ models, which he posits underlie most Western worldviews. The impact of these models is discussed in terms of social, ecological and inner peace.
Research Interests:
The increase in zoonotic viruses (transferring from animals to humans) from SARS to Ebola, HIV, Zika (Bell et al. 2004) and now COVID-19 is inextricably linked to humanity’s continuing expansion and impact on the planet.... more
The increase in zoonotic viruses (transferring from animals to humans) from SARS to Ebola, HIV, Zika (Bell et al. 2004) and now COVID-19 is inextricably linked to humanity’s continuing expansion and impact on the planet. Climate chaos resulting from greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions accumulating in the atmosphere is predicted to amplify the future pandemics, socio-economic and ecological crises (Watts et al. 2018). Tackling the roots of the COVID-19 pandemic calls into question the industrialised socio-political-economic systems that assume limitless growth in consumption and production. The urge to ‘return to normal’ remains stuck in growth economics. Meanwhile innovative cities like Amsterdam and countries such as New Zealand embrace contextual alternatives. This article identifies a few ways that Australia may re-orientate their economy for post-coronavirus (and post-bushfires) recovery so to help prevent future pandemics and ecological catastrophes associated with a return to business-as-usual.
Research Interests:
This article explores the contribution of Alan Watts’ ‘dramatic model of the universe’ to the pursuit of peace. It locates Watts’ critique of dominant Western worldviews alongside process philosophers, ecologists and peace theorists who... more
This article explores the contribution of Alan Watts’ ‘dramatic model of the universe’ to the pursuit of peace. It locates Watts’ critique of dominant Western worldviews alongside process philosophers, ecologists and peace theorists who have made similar claims. It focuses on Watts’ proposition that understanding
the ‘self’ to be a ‘skin-encapsulated ego’ is a root cause of many of humanity’s biggest problems, not least the destruction of the environment. According to Watts, a more satisfying worldview understands the self to be a process, inseparable from the cosmological, evolutionary and ecological processes out of
which it has emerged. Watts refers to this as a ‘dramatic’ model of the universe. He contrasts this with the ‘ceramic’ and ‘fully-automatic’ models, which he posits underlie most Western worldviews. The impact of these models is discussed in terms of social, ecological and inner peace.
the ‘self’ to be a ‘skin-encapsulated ego’ is a root cause of many of humanity’s biggest problems, not least the destruction of the environment. According to Watts, a more satisfying worldview understands the self to be a process, inseparable from the cosmological, evolutionary and ecological processes out of
which it has emerged. Watts refers to this as a ‘dramatic’ model of the universe. He contrasts this with the ‘ceramic’ and ‘fully-automatic’ models, which he posits underlie most Western worldviews. The impact of these models is discussed in terms of social, ecological and inner peace.
Research Interests:
Although a modus operandi throughout history, the passing down of beliefs and values from parent to child is a practice that must now be challenged. Drawing a connection between fundamentalist religious beliefs and inter-generational... more
Although a modus operandi throughout history, the passing down of beliefs and values from parent to child is a practice that must now be challenged. Drawing a connection between fundamentalist religious beliefs and inter-generational violence, this paper examines an ethical dilemma that lies at its crux: on the one hand, the peaceful intentions of fundamentalist believers, and on the other a number of violent consequences for individuals, society, and the world. Applying interdisciplinary religious and peace theory scholarship to the case of Christian fundamentalism in Australia, a number of intertwining issues surrounding religion and education are explored. Should religion be taught to children? What is the difference between indoctrination and education? Is some enculturation desirable? Who decides? Do children have a right to choose their own religion? Do parents have a right to teach them theirs? Is indoctrination avoidable? Is neutrality of the teacher attainable? Does a liberal society have a right not to tolerate the intolerant? How might these complex paradoxes be addressed from a philosophical and peace education perspective?
Research Interests:
What is causing the global ecological crisis? Who has the power to solve it? This chapter explores the global ecological crisis as a form of structural violence. Galtung’s “Structural Theory of Imperialism” (1971) is integrated with... more
What is causing the global ecological crisis? Who has the power to solve
it? This chapter explores the global ecological crisis as a form of structural violence. Galtung’s “Structural Theory of Imperialism” (1971) is integrated with Kahn’s “Tyranny of Small Decisions” (1966). The synthesis of theories sheds light on the multi-levelled and multi-directional influence of individuals, nations, institutions and culture. Countless “small decisions”, that appear separate and distant from their collective long-term global consequences, are posited to be a root cause of the crisis. Solving the crisis calls for a holistic re-orienting of decision-making by people across many sectors of society aimed at long-term global interests rather than short-term personal interests. Examples of these decisions are considered. The chapter closes by imagining what a just and sustainable world system operating within planetary boundaries might look like, and consider examples of the type of decision-making it might involve.
it? This chapter explores the global ecological crisis as a form of structural violence. Galtung’s “Structural Theory of Imperialism” (1971) is integrated with Kahn’s “Tyranny of Small Decisions” (1966). The synthesis of theories sheds light on the multi-levelled and multi-directional influence of individuals, nations, institutions and culture. Countless “small decisions”, that appear separate and distant from their collective long-term global consequences, are posited to be a root cause of the crisis. Solving the crisis calls for a holistic re-orienting of decision-making by people across many sectors of society aimed at long-term global interests rather than short-term personal interests. Examples of these decisions are considered. The chapter closes by imagining what a just and sustainable world system operating within planetary boundaries might look like, and consider examples of the type of decision-making it might involve.
Research Interests:
In this chapter the Ngarrindjeri Being Heard, a group of Ngarrindjeri youth, collaborate with Juliet Bennett, a “non-Indigenous” Australian, to explore some of the ways that tourism projects can contribute to educating for social and... more
In this chapter the Ngarrindjeri Being Heard, a group of Ngarrindjeri youth, collaborate with Juliet Bennett, a “non-Indigenous” Australian, to explore some of the ways that tourism projects can contribute to educating for social and ecological justice in Australia. As a researcher of peace and conflict studies, Juliet opens the chapter, introducing the Camp Coorong project and recent changes experienced by the Murray Darling System. The chapter proceeds with a transcription of the voices of the Ngarrindjeri Elders and community collected by the Ngarrindjeri Being Heard and presented in their documentary Nukkan.Kungun.Yunnan. Following this powerful statement of concern, Juliet uses narrative inquiry as a methodology to explore connection between the Ngarrindjeri voices and the voices of others who aspire to address global social and ecological challenges. Approaching this topic as a collaborative enquiry provides an effective way for our cross-cultural perspectives to be shared, in pursuit of our common goals.
Research Interests:
This book presents peer-reviewed texts from the International Peace Research Association’s Ecology and Peace Commission: M.I. Abazie-Humphrey (Nigeria) reviews “Nigeria’s Home-Grown DDR Programme”; C. Christian and H. Speight (USA)... more
This book presents peer-reviewed texts from the International Peace Research Association’s Ecology and Peace Commission: M.I. Abazie-Humphrey (Nigeria) reviews “Nigeria’s Home-Grown DDR Programme”; C. Christian and H. Speight (USA) analyse “Water, Cooperation, and Peace in the Palestinian West Bank”; T. Galaviz (Mexico) discusses “The Peace Process Mediation Network between the Colombian Government and the April 19th Movement”; S.E. Serrano Oswald (Mexico) examines “Social Resilience and Intangible Cultural Heritage: Case Study in Mexico”; A. F. Rashid (Pakistan) and F. Feng (China) focus on “Community Perceptions of Ecological Disturbances Caused During Terrorists Invasion and Counter-insurgency Operations in Swat, Pakistan”; M. Yoshii (Japan) examines “Structure of Discrimination in Japan’s Nuclear Export” and finally, S. Takemine (Japan) discusses “‘Global Hibakusha’ and the Invisible Victims of US Nuclear Testing in the Marshall Islands”.
Research Interests:
Addressing global environmental challenges from a peace ecology perspective, the present book offers peer-reviewed texts that build on the expanding field of peace ecology and applies this concept to global environmental challenges in the... more
Addressing global environmental challenges from a peace ecology perspective, the present book offers peer-reviewed texts that build on the expanding field of peace ecology and applies this concept to global environmental challenges in the Anthropocene. Hans Günter Brauch (Germany) offers a typology of time and turning points in the 20th century; Juliet Bennett (Australia) discusses the global ecological crisis resulting from a “tyranny of small decisions”; Katharina Bitzker (Canada) debates “the emotional dimensions of ecological peacebuilding” through love of nature; Henri Myrttinen (UK) analyses “preliminary findings on gender, peacebuilding and climate change in Honduras” while Úrsula Oswald Spring (Mexíco) offers a critical review of the policy and scientific nexus debate on “the water, energy, food and biodiversity nexus”, reflecting on security in Mexico. In closing, Brauch discusses whether strategies of sustainability transition may enhance the prospects for achieving sustainable peace in the Anthropocene.
Research Interests:
This thesis cross-fertilises process philosophy and peace studies by exploring the ways in which process philosophers extend and strengthen peace scholars’ outlines of a paradigm of/for peace. The value of such a paradigm is illustrated... more
This thesis cross-fertilises process philosophy and peace studies by exploring the ways in which process philosophers extend and strengthen peace scholars’ outlines of a paradigm of/for peace. The value of such a paradigm is illustrated through the example of the climate crisis, showing how process thinking and process metaphysics intervene at its roots. In making this argument, the “static-process framework” is developed as an inroad to process philosophy and a tool to assist with its application. This framework depicts tensions between two modes of thought—static and process thinking—according to five “basic orientations”: abstract/context, closed/open, isolating/relational; passive/generative; one/multi-dimensional. Process thought, as expounded here, resolves these dynamic oppositions by nesting static thinking within process thinking. Through a process lens, the climate crisis is established as symptomatic of a “global systemic crisis” connected to social and economic systems obscured by static-biased thinking and the assumptions of static metaphysics (epistemologies, ontologies and cosmologies) not nested in process contexts. This is seen, for example, in the elevation of abstract measures (such as “The Economy” and quantifiable aspects of life) over concrete real-world experiences, relationships and processes (such as feelings and non-quantifiable aspects of life). The research shows how process thinking depolarises left and right political ideologies, supplements the goal of GDP growth with improvements to human and planetary wellbeing, and unites science and religion through a narrative of cosmological, political and community participation. By drawing new connections between process philosophy and peace studies, and applying emerging insights to the climate crisis, this thesis sheds new light on modes of thought and metaphysics for building a peaceful, just and sustainable future.
Research Interests:
INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE IN ONLINE SURVEY - PLEASE HELP FURTHER UNDERSTANDINGS OF PROCESS-ORIENTED WORLDVIEWS IN REAL WORLD From a process worldview, humans are seen as part of nature and as relational participants in the universe's... more
INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE IN ONLINE SURVEY - PLEASE HELP FURTHER UNDERSTANDINGS OF PROCESS-ORIENTED WORLDVIEWS IN REAL WORLD
From a process worldview, humans are seen as part of nature and as relational participants in the universe's creative process of becoming. This stands in contrast to both mechanistic and supernaturalist worldviews that see humans as individual beings separate from nature and able to rule over it.
If you consider yourself to share such a worldview, might you be willing to participate in a short online survey? It consists of 30 questions, and will take approximately 20 minutes to complete. Many of the questions are directly taken from the World Values Survey and International Social Survey Program to allow for the later comparisons.
The profile constructed from the answers of process thinkers will then be used to explore the beliefs and values of people who share a process-oriented worldview across the world, regardless of their awareness of its philosophical expressions.
To participate please click on this link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/worldviewsandvalues-processthinkers
From a process worldview, humans are seen as part of nature and as relational participants in the universe's creative process of becoming. This stands in contrast to both mechanistic and supernaturalist worldviews that see humans as individual beings separate from nature and able to rule over it.
If you consider yourself to share such a worldview, might you be willing to participate in a short online survey? It consists of 30 questions, and will take approximately 20 minutes to complete. Many of the questions are directly taken from the World Values Survey and International Social Survey Program to allow for the later comparisons.
The profile constructed from the answers of process thinkers will then be used to explore the beliefs and values of people who share a process-oriented worldview across the world, regardless of their awareness of its philosophical expressions.
To participate please click on this link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/worldviewsandvalues-processthinkers
Research Interests:
This thesis applies narrative as theory and method to explore a growing body of interdisciplinary scholarship that connects a holistic and process understanding of the world (a “New Story”) with social and ecological justice (or “positive... more
This thesis applies narrative as theory and method to explore a growing body of interdisciplinary scholarship that connects a holistic and process understanding of the world (a “New Story”) with social and ecological justice (or “positive peace”). First, the indirect violence of global poverty and environmental destruction are examined in terms of the dissipation of individual responsibility amid political, economic and social institutions. Second, a connection is made between these structural forms of violence and one-dimensional narratives. Drawing from an argument shared by process thinkers Charles Birch, Alan Watts and Thomas Berry, I critique the “Old Story” of one-dimensional religious narratives, and one-dimensional reductionistic narratives of the “Modern Story”. These stories are contrasted with a multi-dimensional and ecological worldview that Berry calls a “New Story”, which narrates an understanding of the self, humanity and the cosmos as one interconnecting process. This process understanding of the world is shown to be located in a rich and vast history of panentheistic theology. This research concludes that the narratological “New Story” engages conflicting worldviews, enables “positive conflict” and motivates action toward a long-term vision of positive peace.
Key words: Structural violence, New Story, narratology, process thought, ecological worldview, panentheism, positive peace, positive conflict
Key words: Structural violence, New Story, narratology, process thought, ecological worldview, panentheism, positive peace, positive conflict
Research Interests:
The rise of religious fundamentalisms and the implications of the dividing polarity are a topic of increasing attention in scholarly literature. The induction of new generations into opposing world-views is a structural violence deeply... more
The rise of religious fundamentalisms and the implications of the dividing polarity are a topic of increasing attention in scholarly literature. The induction of new generations into opposing world-views is a structural violence deeply embedded in widespread education and parenting systems. The implications of this phenomenon and in particular that the childhood conversion into fundamentalists’ paradigms, range from psychological abuse to global threats driven by religious-identity ideologies. This paper approaches the topic as a dilemma: the pure intentions and passionate beliefs of fundamentalists, with violent consequences on individuals, society, and the world.
Extensive religious and secular scholarship and Australian case studies provide a basis for analysis and evaluation of this ethical dilemma. Perspectives of children, parents, fundamentalist leaders, and society, are examined and theoretical and practical solutions explored. A breach of the Convention of the Rights of the Child is identified and ways of increasing education on religion and decreasing incidences of indoctrination are discussed. In order for a child to truly exercise their right to freedom of religion, it is the education of fundamentalist parents and leaders that is crucial. The paper concludes with an introduction to recent United Nations initiatives that look towards such solutions. Spreading awareness of the ethical dilemma is the first step to addressing this structural violence and its significant consequences.
Extensive religious and secular scholarship and Australian case studies provide a basis for analysis and evaluation of this ethical dilemma. Perspectives of children, parents, fundamentalist leaders, and society, are examined and theoretical and practical solutions explored. A breach of the Convention of the Rights of the Child is identified and ways of increasing education on religion and decreasing incidences of indoctrination are discussed. In order for a child to truly exercise their right to freedom of religion, it is the education of fundamentalist parents and leaders that is crucial. The paper concludes with an introduction to recent United Nations initiatives that look towards such solutions. Spreading awareness of the ethical dilemma is the first step to addressing this structural violence and its significant consequences.
Research Interests:
Philosophical and theological insights from panentheism (the idea that everything is inside “God”) imply a universal unity between parts and their whole, between life and ecosystems, between all people, all species, and between past,... more
Philosophical and theological insights from panentheism (the idea that everything is inside “God”) imply a universal unity between parts and their whole, between life and ecosystems, between all people, all species, and between past, present and future. Approaching the topic from an interdisciplinary Peace and Conflict Studies perspective, this paper inquires into whether panentheism might offer a natural, rational, and ecologically attractive alternative to the classic theism and atheism debates that dominate western discourse. Following a brief survey of the philosophical and theological roots of panentheism, I use a narrative approach to open up a conversation about the definitions “self”, “other”, and “God”. In particular I refer to the works of three process thinkers: Alfred North Whitehead, Alan Watts, and Charles Birch, exploring their intersections with some emerging scientific perspectives. This paper frames a story of humanity and the universe as co-evolving processes, each a part of a larger whole. It is a unifying story that is multi-layered and open-ended. It is a story that embraces the positive aspects of conflict and strives to use conflict in adventurous, creative, and non-violent ways.
Research Interests:
Panentheism is a process-oriented theology that locates everything (pan) inside and part of (en) a cosmic event that may be referred to as “God” (theos). Challenging anthropomorphic concepts of God, panentheism is a naturalistic,... more
Panentheism is a process-oriented theology that locates
everything (pan) inside and part of (en) a cosmic event that may
be referred to as “God” (theos). Challenging anthropomorphic
concepts of God, panentheism is a naturalistic, inclusive and
ecological alternative to classic theism and atheism. This
paper surveys panentheism’s long and rich history from Plato
and the Hindu scriptures through to German idealism and the
speculative metaphysics of Alfred North Whitehead. Following
an introduction to some of the key concepts of panentheism, it
draws from the analytic interpretive process philosophy of Martin
Heidegger and narratology of Paul Ricoeur to provide a nontheological
explanation of panentheistic theology. Written from
an interdisciplinary Peace and Conflict Studies perspective, this
paper considers some of the ways that panentheist theology and
process philosophy contribute to the aim of positive peace.
everything (pan) inside and part of (en) a cosmic event that may
be referred to as “God” (theos). Challenging anthropomorphic
concepts of God, panentheism is a naturalistic, inclusive and
ecological alternative to classic theism and atheism. This
paper surveys panentheism’s long and rich history from Plato
and the Hindu scriptures through to German idealism and the
speculative metaphysics of Alfred North Whitehead. Following
an introduction to some of the key concepts of panentheism, it
draws from the analytic interpretive process philosophy of Martin
Heidegger and narratology of Paul Ricoeur to provide a nontheological
explanation of panentheistic theology. Written from
an interdisciplinary Peace and Conflict Studies perspective, this
paper considers some of the ways that panentheist theology and
process philosophy contribute to the aim of positive peace.
Research Interests:
This paper explores the structural dynamics behind global poverty and environmental destruction, and the role of narrative in perpetuating or addressing this violence. Combining Johan Galtung’s “Structural Theory of Imperialism” with... more
This paper explores the structural dynamics behind global poverty and environmental destruction, and the role of narrative
in perpetuating or addressing this violence. Combining Johan Galtung’s “Structural Theory of Imperialism” with William
Hipwell’s “Industria hypothesis” and Alfred Kahn’s “Tyranny of Small Decisions”, this paper critiques the tendency for global
capitalistic institutions to favour material gains for a small percentage of the world, with long-term social and environmental
costs for all. Secondly, the paper considers an argument shared by ecologists, theologists and philosophers proposing
that a “new story” can help to address this structural violence. Told from a holistic, scientific perspective, this story points
to the interdependence of organisms and ecosystems, encouraging individuals to align their actions with the long-term
interests of the Earth community. While an idealistic proposition, it is hoped that by encouraging critical reflections on one’s
“self”, in social, political, economic and ecological contexts, people may feel empowered to address structural violence, to
consider broader and longer-term perspectives in their decision-making, and move humanity toward a more socially just and
ecologically sustainable global society.
in perpetuating or addressing this violence. Combining Johan Galtung’s “Structural Theory of Imperialism” with William
Hipwell’s “Industria hypothesis” and Alfred Kahn’s “Tyranny of Small Decisions”, this paper critiques the tendency for global
capitalistic institutions to favour material gains for a small percentage of the world, with long-term social and environmental
costs for all. Secondly, the paper considers an argument shared by ecologists, theologists and philosophers proposing
that a “new story” can help to address this structural violence. Told from a holistic, scientific perspective, this story points
to the interdependence of organisms and ecosystems, encouraging individuals to align their actions with the long-term
interests of the Earth community. While an idealistic proposition, it is hoped that by encouraging critical reflections on one’s
“self”, in social, political, economic and ecological contexts, people may feel empowered to address structural violence, to
consider broader and longer-term perspectives in their decision-making, and move humanity toward a more socially just and
ecologically sustainable global society.
Research Interests:
Do education practices within fundamentalist Christian schools in Australia adhere to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of a Child (CRC)? Referring to extensive scholarship and available case studies, this article exposes a... more
Do education practices within fundamentalist Christian schools in Australia adhere to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of a Child (CRC)? Referring to extensive scholarship and available case studies, this article exposes a particular branch of Australian schools that appears to explicitly breach Articles 14, the right of a child to freedom of religion, and Article 29, the requirement of education to prepare children for responsible life in free society. Practices are shown to have significant implications for the lives of at least 2.4% of children in Australia, and for wider Australian and global society. This paper argues that as a signatory on the CRC, the Australian government has a legal responsibility to address the breach. The article closes with an overview of initiatives that may assist in this process.
Research Interests:
INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE IN ONLINE SURVEY - PLEASE HELP FURTHER UNDERSTANDINGS OF PROCESS-ORIENTED WORLDVIEWS IN REAL WORLD From a process worldview, humans are seen as part of nature and as relational participants in the universe's... more
INVITATION TO PARTICIPATE IN ONLINE SURVEY - PLEASE HELP FURTHER UNDERSTANDINGS OF PROCESS-ORIENTED WORLDVIEWS IN REAL WORLD
From a process worldview, humans are seen as part of nature and as relational participants in the universe's creative process of becoming. This stands in contrast to both mechanistic and supernaturalist worldviews that see humans as individual beings separate from nature and able to rule over it.
If you consider yourself to share such a worldview, might you be willing to participate in a short online survey? It consists of 30 questions, and will take approximately 20 minutes to complete. Many of the questions are directly taken from the World Values Survey and International Social Survey Program to allow for the later comparisons.
The profile constructed from the answers of process thinkers will then be used to explore the beliefs and values of people who share a process-oriented worldview across the world, regardless of their awareness of its philosophical expressions.
From a process worldview, humans are seen as part of nature and as relational participants in the universe's creative process of becoming. This stands in contrast to both mechanistic and supernaturalist worldviews that see humans as individual beings separate from nature and able to rule over it.
If you consider yourself to share such a worldview, might you be willing to participate in a short online survey? It consists of 30 questions, and will take approximately 20 minutes to complete. Many of the questions are directly taken from the World Values Survey and International Social Survey Program to allow for the later comparisons.
The profile constructed from the answers of process thinkers will then be used to explore the beliefs and values of people who share a process-oriented worldview across the world, regardless of their awareness of its philosophical expressions.