Hinduism and Ecology
by Christopher Key Chapple and Mary Evelyn Tucker

The essays in this volume examine the ecological underpinnings and implications of Hinduism, both in principle and in practice. The outcome of a conference at the Center for the Study of World Religions at Harvard University, this book addresses a new field of study in religion, which has implications for contemporary environmental ethics and public policy concerns. The essays are grouped into sections that cover traditional Hindu concepts of nature, Gandhian philosophy, forests in texts and traditions, sacred rivers and environmental conscience. From the Rigveda, the Bhagvadgita, and the Ramayana, to Gandhian ideals and contemporary issues; from forests in the epics to the sacred rivers--Yamuna, Ganga and Narmada--Hinduism and Ecology offers a wealth of perspectives on the ways in which Hinduism and ecological issues are ebnesged. Engaging and evocative, the essays discuss both the personal and the collective dimensions of ecology in Hinduism. This book will be of interest of students, scholars and general readers interested in religion, ecology and environmental issues.

About the Author:

CHRISTOPHER KEY CHAPPLE is Professor of Theological Studies and Director of Asian and Pacific Studies, Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, California.MARY EVELYN TUCKER is Professor of Religion, Bucknell University, Lewisburg, Pennsylvania.