Environmentalism as a Secular Religion

Instructor Ryan Darr’s class must have been fascinating. The intersection of religion and the environment is fertile ground for spirited discussion. Neither the article nor the required reading sheds light on whether the course investigated the claim that Zealous Environmentalism (capitalization intended) has become a secular religion with attendant psychological involvement.

“Environmentalism today is the dominant secular religion of the educated, upper-middle-class elite in most developed...nations. It provides a new story about our collective and individual purpose.” So says environmentalist and best-selling author Michael Shellenberger in his myth shattering Apocalypse Never (Harper Collins, 2020).

Do some anointed scientists and politicians act as intermediaries with Goddess Earth? Are those who lack faith shunned, or roasted in the virtual public square, sometimes with threats, lost jobs and advancement? This new, but old, religion could be an interdisciplinary course jointly taught by three departments — religion, politics, and psychology. A full inquiry can be made into man’s search for meaning, emotional states, and drives for power. May I audit said course if offered?