Earth jurisprudence means looking at the actual philosophy and value systems that underpin most legal and governance systems, and making sure that they support, rather than undermine, the integrity and health of the Earth.
Most legal systems promote the interest of the human community while giving no real protection to other species, or to the planet itself. They reflect and perpetuate a view of the Earth as simply a collection of 'resources' or objects which human beings are entitled to exploit for their exclusive benefit.
So what if there were another jurisprudence, based upon the concept that the planet and all species have rights? And they have those rights by virtue of their existence as members of a single Earth community?
Join a growing international network of people who are taking up the challenge of making radical changes in our approach to environmental law making, the philosophy on which laws implement policy, and the systems of governance which enable such laws to be made and applied.
Theologian, scholar and one of the most eminent cultural historians of our times, first conceived the idea of Earth Jurisprudence. His work has inspired thousands of people, worldwide, who are looking for a way to return to an Earth-centred worldview.
In his book The Great Work: Our Way into the Future, Thomas Berry explains the roots of the ecological, social and democratic crisis we now face. It is through the legal system, he argues, that the present globalising society allows and legitimises destruction, or could prevent it.
ENERGY: SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
Friday 7th March 2008 at the Institute of Advanced Legal Studies
An opportunity to learn more about some of the most topical environmental questions being asked, challenge ideas and benefit from the collective expertise of all the participants. The conference brings together lawyers, NGO’s, students and environmentalists to ignite debate and increase awareness about the energy challenges we face today. Speakers include Gordon Main, Peter Roderick, Maria Cull, M J Mace and Cameron McKenna. There will also be a live interactive video conference with the US public interest environmental law conference.
UNFOLDING EARTH JUSTICE: MEETING THE NEEDS OF OUR TIME
7th June 2008 at the Gaia Learning Centre, London
Real law is discovered, not made. What can be discovered by observing nature? How do we come to a natural way of living? Earth Justice is a search for a new philosophy of law based on reverence and respect for nature, the natural world and human dignity. Discover the principles of Earth Justice and where they come from. A workshop for lawyers and non-lawyers alike, with Ian Mason, barrister, Director of the Earth Justice Legal Resource Centre and Head of Law and Economics, School of Economic Science.
EARTH JURISPRUDENCE: LAW ON THE SIDE OF NATURE
22nd-26th September 2008 at Schumacher College, Devon.
An introduction to the philosophy underlying Earth Jurisprudence and its relationship to broader social issues, with Cormac Cullinan, Mellese Damtie, Ng'ang'a Thiong'o and Ian Mason. Participants will explore the characteristics of a governance system established to protect the rights of all members of a particular biological community, instead of only humans, and how this would affect prevailing economic structures and systems. It is intended for lawyers interested in developing their environmental practice, activists and community development workers wishing to understand more about how the law can help their campaigns, also law students and academics.
WILD LAW INTO PRACTICE
26th-28th September 2008 in the Peak District, Derbyshire.
This intensive weekend workshop will focus on international examples of wild law, translating them into practical action. In the beautiful setting of Lea Green, in Derbyshire, up to fifty delegates, including leading practitioners and academics from around the world, will explore whether Wild Law can be treated as a coherent body of law and practice with the potential to inspire change and develop a growing Earth Jurisprudence network.
For more information contact Alison Boyd on alisonboyd.ukela@ntlbusiness.com

