MUM SL Department Hosts First Colloquy on Deep Sustainability

The term colloquy is defined as “a conversation, a theological dialogue, or a high-level serious discussion.” This is exactly what Maharishi International University’s Sustainable Living department wanted to happen regarding the concept of deep sustainability. The department’s very first Colloquy on Deep Sustainability, hosted from June 19^th to June 21^st, 2015, made this dream a reality. As a closed discussion that featured some of the most esteemed and influential people in the sustainability movement, this weekend-long conversation’s goal was to get down to the bottom of what deep sustainability should mean, how it differs from similar concepts and systems, and what a future with deep sustainability at its core should look like. You can now listen to the entire conference yourself.

The official description of the event is as follows:

“Deep sustainability goes beyond the current instrumental approach to sustainability. It is not simply a “less bad” means to the same economic ends of profits and growth. It is a re-framing or restatement of the ultimate end of all human endeavor – well-being, happiness, or quality of life. Like deep ecology, deep sustainability challenges us to rethink the fundamental nature of our relationships with each other and with the other living and non-living things of the earth. It explores the ethical, philosophical, and spiritual roots that must sustain the healthy growth of ecological, social, and economic integrity. It removes the restraints to human betterment by redefining what it means to be truly human.

We have begun this exploration, but we know we will need the help of other thoughtful, caring people if we are to make a difference. So, we are inviting such a select group of people to join us in Fairfield this coming summer for a colloquy of deep sustainability.”

A lot thoughtful and heartfelt ideas were put on the table during this discussion, covering topics such as philosophy, spirituality, mathematics, ecology, economics, governments and societies. It was agreed by all attendees that the main thing that is needed in all of these areas of life is a more heart-based approach; an approach based on love and compassion.