Mysticism of the “Square Meter”

At this point, the international scientific community agrees that the imminent environmental catastrophe is the great issue of our time. Just ask the flooded Brazilians in Rio Grande do Sul or the inhabitants of New Delhi who have endured temperatures exceeding fifty degrees Celsius.

What can be done? Who is responsible for doing it? A useful approach would combine science + wisdom and, in the immediate term: technology + conversion. Science and technology are indispensable tools to reverse the course toward catastrophe. Wisdom, however, demands a conversion of the heart—a shift in perspective or a new way of experiencing oneself in the world that is essential for altering the current trajectory. This involves a subjective transformation that integrates the feeling of connection with Mother Earth.

These are two different kinds of knowledge that must be combined to forge a new civilization or, at least, to develop more humane lifestyles within the domestic sphere. It is unimaginable to think we can escape the ongoing collapse without science and technology. Yet, even if, in the long run, the planet slips out of our control, it will always be possible to heal and improve it within our own “square meter”—that small area we tend to, such as a garden, sorting waste, or choosing the type of packaging we use.

We have arrived at this situation—not just my opinion—because of blind trust in the idea that science and technology alone could provide humanity with a sense of purpose. The integration of this type of knowledge with humanistic, philosophical, and theological wisdom—an integration that has not yet occurred—should be pursued moving forward to urgently address global warming.

If we want to nurture a new humanity, we must advance on both fronts, starting with developing a mysticism of the “square meter.” No matter how small our conversion—turning off the tap, avoiding plastic, ending superfluous consumption, reducing air travel, saving electricity, harnessing solar energy where possible, restoring vegetation, or using public transportation—it will be crucial. Without this micro-level change, macro-level transformations will not happen. Without the “micro,” the “macro” cannot be achieved.

The integration of knowledge is key. A mysticism of the small cannot ignore the fate of other beings on the planet. False mysticism is always individualistic. Selfishness alienates us from others, and since there is no future without them, false mysticism also leads to disaster.

In these circumstances, it is essential to observe the spiritual experience of environmental activists. I’m not referring to activists who are Christians or belong to other faiths, but rather to those men and women who, like the prophets of Israel, have been ignored, ridiculed for decades, and even martyred by extractivist mining and logging companies due to their environmental commitment. It is true that there are various forms of environmentalism. The best among them have managed to combine these two domains of knowledge. Some of these individuals, as organic intellectuals, are ahead of us in their studies and the generation of new knowledge while also taking to the streets to protest and denounce injustice.

A final thought: perhaps someone cannot stop eating meat, but they can switch from gasoline to electricity and contribute to the actions mentioned above. At the very least, they can raise their voice and demand that the state stop handing over wetlands to private companies.

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