Indigenous Religions & Ecology from Coursera

At first glance the fields of religion and ecology may seem and unlikely pairing, but a deeper consideration reveals the two have a great deal to contribute to one another and are indeed inextricably linked. Religions recognize the unity and interdependence of humans with nature. Ecological sciences affirm this deep interconnection with the natural world. This partnership can inspire work for the wellbeing of the Earth community

There is a need for broader literacy and deeper knowledge of the world’s religions and their ecological contributions. This specialization, "Religions and Ecology: Restoring the Earth Community", contributes such a perspective. Each course celebrates the vitality of religiously-informed action for the Earth and recognizes the longstanding contributions of Indigenous peoples in offering visions and practices for ecological flourishing.

This is course 2 of 5 in the "Religions and Ecology: Restoring the Earth Community" specialization that focuses on the ecological dimensions of religious traditions throughout the world.

The course is designed as a gateway to the significant contributions of Indigenous peoples of Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Pacific Regions for environmental understanding. The diversity of Indigenous communities around the planet makes selective coverage necessary, but shared patterns of resilience manifest themselves worldwide. So much has emerged in the last several decades in understanding traditional environmental knowledge, as you will see.

This course is for lifelong learners curious to know more about world religions and ecology, environmental professionals eager to deepen the discourse of environmental protection and conservation, those working with non-profit organizations and NGOs on issues of ecological justice, and religion leaders and laity who wish to know how they can contribute to interreligious dialogue on environmental projects.

What's inside

Syllabus

MODULE 1: Course Introduction

MODULE 2: Introduction to the Study of Indigenous Religions and Ecology

We explore terms and themes in the study of Indigenous religions and ecology. Terms such as Indigeneity, sovereignty, lifeway, cosmovision and cosmopolitics are examined. Underlying themes such as responsibilities, rights and reciprocities with the Earth are highlighted by Native spokespersons. There is an inherent call for interweaving environmental and social justice often referred to as integral ecology.

MODULE 3: From Decolonization to Restoration in Indigenous Communities

Settlers and nation-states have used stereotypes to demean, subjugate, and exploit Indigenous peoples, communities, and lands. “Decolonization” is the recognition of this historical distortion and the racism that continues into the present. In light of this reality, “Indigeneity” may be seen as a call to self-discovery necessary for restoring Indigenous voices and sovereignty in decision-making.

MODULE 4: Native North Americans

Native worldviews and cultural values were undermined by dominant societies. Yet these losses did not fully erase the resilience that has led to recovery of lifeways and traditional knowledge, as described by a Hopi elder. Native peoples in North America have restored relationships with land and seeds, lakes and rivers, animals and biodiversity. This is expressed in ritual revivals among the Crow and Salish peoples as well as ecosystem restoration by Pacific Northwest peoples. We see resilience among Arctic Inuit peoples struggling with climate emergencies, and Gwich’in peoples resisting oil development in caribou calving grounds.

MODULE 5: Native Peoples in Meso-America and South America

We examine Indigenous peoples from Meso-America through the Amazon Basin and South America. In diverse ways their cosmovisions draw on traditional values and practices providing resilience in the face of present challenges. As Indigenous peoples reintegrate their social and spiritual visions they mount creative modes of resistance to exploitation. These contemporary expressions of environmental activism directly relate to their struggles to establish the rights of nature as expressed in the Universal Declaration of the Rights of Mother Earth.

MODULE 6: Native Peoples of Africa

We open with Wangari Maathai, the Nobel Prize winning environmentalist and founder of the Greenbelt Movement for reforestation led by women. Then we explore local Native groups in Africa touching on their environmental challenges after centuries of colonization. Forest conservation and climate challenges provide themes for exploring ways in which traditional African societies bring religious worldviews and ethics to bear on these issues.

MODULE 7: Indigenous Peoples in Asia

We examine regions in Asia where Indigenous peoples continue to experience global and national challenges to their cultural integrity. These include projects such as dams, deforestation, and industrial extraction in which environmental resistance provides rallying points for Indigenous cultural survival. We explore the practices of these Indigenous peoples as they ritually interact with land and biodiversity, which also includes the revival of diverse forms of shamanism.

MODULE 8: First Nations in Australia

We examine diverse groups of Indigenous-Aboriginal peoples who for over 50,000 years have inhabited the land mass now called Australia. Cosmovisions, law, and cultural practices find expressions in Dreaming and Songlines, as well as social and eco-justice movements. We hear elders narrate how mythic stories ground fire regimes that keep forested areas cleared. We see how restoration projects bring traditional knowledge forward for renewal of peoples and ecosystems. Many of these ancient custodial relations are now beginning to inform mainstream societies’ ecological practices.

MODULE 9: Indigenous Peoples of the Pacific

The relations of Indigenous peoples to oceans, islands, rivers, and biodiversity are the focus of this module on the Pacific region. Interactive themes such as cosmovisions, transoceanic voyages, food sovereignty, and climate emergencies frame these discussions. Ancient Māori and Hawaiian aspirations toward ecological wellbeing surfaces in the renewal of Indigenous knowledge and cultural practices leading to responsibility for our planet. This also finds expression in the quest for rights of nature.

MODULE 10: Course Conclusion

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores the ecological dimensions of religious traditions, fostering interreligious dialogue and action on environmental issues

Taught by John Grim and Mary Evelyn Tucker, renowned scholars in the field of religion and ecology, ensuring high-quality instruction

Celebrates the vitality of religiously-informed action for the Earth, recognizing the contributions of Indigenous peoples

Provides a broad overview of Indigenous religions and their ecological perspectives, from Africa to the Americas and Pacific regions

Examines the struggles and resilience of Indigenous communities in the face of environmental challenges, highlighting their agency and resistance

Emphasizes the importance of interweaving environmental and social justice, highlighting the concept of integral ecology

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Indigenous Religions & Ecology with these activities:

Read 'The Sixth Extinction' by Elizabeth Kolbert

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Gain insights into the history and causes of mass extinctions, providing a broader perspective on the ecological challenges facing humanity today.

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Locate a copy of the book, either physically or digitally.
Read the book, paying attention to the scientific evidence and arguments presented.
Summarize the main points and key concepts of the book.

Follow the 'Introduction to Indigenous Studies' video series

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Gain a foundational understanding of Indigenous cultures and perspectives, enhancing your comprehension of the course material.

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Search for the 'Introduction to Indigenous Studies' video series on a platform like YouTube or Coursera.
Watch the videos in sequence, taking notes on key concepts and ideas.
Pause the videos to reflect on the information presented and to research further if needed.

Read 'Braiding Sweetgrass' by Robin Wall Kimmerer

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Explore an Indigenous perspective on nature, science, and the environment, providing a valuable foundation for understanding the course material.

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Obtain the book, either physically or digitally.
Read the book at a leisurely pace, reflecting on the insights and wisdom it offers.
Take notes or highlight passages that resonate with you.

Five other activities

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Participate in a peer-led discussion group

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Engage in discussions with fellow learners to share insights, ask questions, and deepen your understanding of the course material through collective learning.

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Connect with other learners enrolled in the course.
Establish a regular meeting time and platform for discussions.
Take turns facilitating the discussions and presenting prepared topics.
Actively listen to others' perspectives and contribute your own ideas.

Create a mind map of Indigenous environmental knowledge

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Synthesize your understanding of Indigenous ecological principles and their relevance to contemporary environmental issues.

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Brainstorm and list down the main themes and concepts related to Indigenous environmental knowledge.
Create a visual representation using a mind map or other diagramming tool.
Connect the different concepts and ideas with arrows or branches, showing their relationships.
Add examples and case studies to illustrate the practical applications of Indigenous environmental knowledge.

Volunteer at a local environmental organization

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Gain hands-on experience and practical insights into the challenges and solutions related to environmental issues, complementing the theoretical knowledge gained in the course.

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Research and identify local environmental organizations that align with your interests.
Contact the organizations to inquire about volunteer opportunities and requirements.
Commit to a regular volunteering schedule and carry out assigned tasks diligently.
Reflect on your experiences and connect them to the concepts discussed in the course.

Develop an environmental stewardship plan

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Apply the principles of environmental stewardship to a specific context, fostering a sense of responsibility and action towards the environment.

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Identify a specific environmental issue or challenge within your community or a local ecosystem.
Research and gather information about the issue, its causes, and potential solutions.
Develop a plan outlining specific actions and strategies to address the issue.
Identify potential partners and stakeholders who can contribute to the implementation of the plan.

Design and implement a community outreach campaign

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Develop practical skills in communicating environmental issues to the public, raising awareness, and promoting positive change.

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Identify a specific environmental issue or concern that you want to address.
Research and gather information about the issue, its causes, and potential solutions.
Develop a communication strategy and outreach plan, including target audience, message, and distribution channels.
Design and create outreach materials, such as brochures, posters, or social media campaigns.
Implement the outreach campaign and monitor its effectiveness.

Career center

Learners who complete Indigenous Religions & Ecology will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists work to improve the environment and human health. In this role, you would enforce regulations, conduct research, and work to protect ecosystems. This course may help you gain background knowledge on Indigenous religions and ecology that could help you build a foundation for conservation and environmental justice work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist

Conservation Officer

Conservation Officers protect natural resources and wildlife. They enforce environmental laws, investigate violations, and educate the public about conservation. This course may help you understand Indigenous perspectives on ecology and the importance of preserving traditional knowledge, which can be valuable in your work.

See salaries and explore the career path for Conservation Officer

Sustainability Manager

Sustainability Managers develop and implement sustainability programs for businesses and organizations. They work to reduce environmental impact, improve social responsibility, and promote economic growth. This course may help you understand diverse Indigenous perspectives on ecology which can help inform your work in sustainability.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sustainability Manager

Environmental Consultant

Environmental Consultants provide advice and guidance to businesses and organizations on environmental issues. They help clients comply with regulations, develop sustainability programs, and reduce environmental impact. This course may help you develop an understanding of the environmental concerns of Indigenous peoples, which can be valuable in your work with clients.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Consultant

Environmental Educator

Environmental Educators teach people about the environment and its importance. They develop educational programs, lead workshops, and work with schools and community groups. This course may help you build a foundation in Indigenous religions and ecology, providing you with a valuable perspective to share with your students or audiences.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Educator

Policy Analyst

Policy Analysts research and analyze public policy issues. They make recommendations to policymakers and help develop and implement policies. This course may help you understand the environmental concerns of Indigenous peoples, which can be valuable in your work on environmental policy.

See salaries and explore the career path for Policy Analyst

Environmental Activist

Environmental Activists work to protect the environment and promote sustainability. They organize campaigns, lobby policymakers, and raise awareness about environmental issues. This course may help you develop a deeper understanding of Indigenous religions and ecology, providing you with a valuable perspective to inform your activism.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Activist

Wildlife Biologist

Wildlife Biologists study wildlife populations and their habitats. They conduct research, manage wildlife areas, and develop conservation plans. This course may help you understand the traditional knowledge and practices of Indigenous communities, which can be valuable in your work with wildlife conservation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Wildlife Biologist

Environmental Lawyer

Environmental Lawyers represent clients in environmental disputes and advise them on environmental law. They work to protect the environment and enforce environmental regulations. This course may help you understand the legal rights of Indigenous peoples and the environmental issues they face, which can be valuable in your work as an environmental lawyer.

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Journalist

Journalists write, edit, and report news stories. They inform the public about current events and issues. This course may help you develop a deeper understanding of Indigenous religions and ecology, providing you with a valuable perspective to inform your reporting on environmental issues.

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Anthropologist

Anthropologists study human societies and cultures. They conduct research, teach, and write about human behavior and social organization. This course may help you develop a deeper understanding of Indigenous religions and ecology, providing you with a valuable perspective to inform your research and teaching.

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Sociologist

Sociologists study human societies and social behavior. They conduct research, teach, and write about social institutions, social change, and social problems. This course may help you develop a deeper understanding of Indigenous religions and ecology, providing you with a valuable perspective to inform your research and teaching.

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Historian

Historians research, analyze, and write about the past. They teach, write books, and work in museums and archives. This course may help you develop a deeper understanding of Indigenous religions and ecology, providing you with a valuable perspective to inform your research and writing.

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Museum curator

Museum Curators manage and care for museum collections. They research, exhibit, and interpret artifacts and specimens. This course may help you develop a deeper understanding of Indigenous religions and ecology, providing you with a valuable perspective to inform your work with Indigenous collections.

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Archivist

Archivists manage and preserve historical documents and records. They work in libraries, museums, and other institutions. This course may help you develop a deeper understanding of Indigenous religions and ecology, providing you with a valuable perspective to inform your work with Indigenous archives.

See salaries and explore the career path for Archivist