Only Planet of Choice
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Only Planet of Choice
The premise of "Only Planet of Choice"—that human consciousness is intrinsically linked to planetary health—is certainly compelling, especially when framed within the early 1990s context. Jenkins and Schlemmer attempt to bridge the gap between esoteric thought and ecological crisis, a task that is both ambitious and necessary. The book's strength lies in its persistent focus on the inner landscape as a mirror to the outer world. However, its primary limitation is a tendency towards abstract pronouncements without always providing rigorous grounding or actionable pathways for the reader. For instance, the exploration of 'choice points' feels more like a philosophical assertion than a practical guide for navigating complex ecological decisions. The work sometimes struggles to translate its grand visions into tangible steps for the individual or collective.
Ultimately, "Only Planet of Choice" offers a unique, albeit occasionally elusive, perspective on our planetary predicament.
📝 Description
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### What It Is
"Only Planet of Choice" by Palden Jenkins and Phyllis Schlemmer, first published in 1993, offers a unique perspective on the relationship between human consciousness and the Earth. It moves beyond simple environmentalism to explore the deeper, often unseen connections that bind humanity to its planetary home. The work delves into the idea that our collective choices and inner states directly influence the physical condition of the world.
### Who It's For
This book is intended for readers interested in the esoteric and metaphysical dimensions of ecology and planetary well-being. It will appeal to those who seek to understand the spiritual underpinnings of environmental issues and who are open to exploring consciousness as a factor in global change. It is particularly suited for individuals engaged in spiritual or philosophical inquiry who believe in the interconnectedness of all things.
### Historical Context
Emerging in the early 1990s, "Only Planet of Choice" arrived during a period of growing environmental awareness but also a nascent interest in the spiritual and consciousness-based aspects of these concerns. While mainstream environmentalism focused on policy and scientific data, this work positioned itself within a more esoteric lineage, drawing parallels with ancient wisdom traditions and contemporary spiritual movements that sought to re-enchant the world. It predates much of the modern discourse on deep ecology and eco-spirituality.
### Key Concepts
The book introduces several core ideas, including the concept of 'planetary consciousness' – suggesting the Earth possesses a form of awareness that responds to humanity's actions and intentions. It also explores the notion of 'choice points' in both individual and collective human development, where decisions have profound, far-reaching consequences for the planet. The work emphasizes a holistic view, integrating psychological, spiritual, and ecological perspectives.
💡 Why Read This Book?
• Gain an esoteric framework for understanding ecological issues, moving beyond conventional environmentalism by exploring the concept of 'planetary consciousness' as presented in the book. • Discover the idea of 'choice points' in human development and how these critical junctures, as discussed by Jenkins and Schlemmer, are presented as pivotal for Earth's future. • Connect with a spiritual perspective on our relationship with the Earth, informed by the book's 1993 publication date and its place within early eco-spiritual thought.
⭐ Reader Reviews
Honest opinions from readers who have explored this book.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the central thesis of "Only Planet of Choice"?
The book's central thesis posits a deep, reciprocal relationship between human consciousness and the Earth's physical state, suggesting our collective inner world directly impacts planetary well-being.
Who are the authors of "Only Planet of Choice"?
The book was authored by Palden Jenkins and Phyllis Schlemmer. It was first published in 1993.
What is 'planetary consciousness' as discussed in the book?
'Planetary consciousness' refers to the concept that the Earth itself possesses a form of awareness that responds to human thought and action, as explored in the text.
Does the book offer practical solutions for environmental problems?
While it emphasizes the inner work necessary for planetary healing, "Only Planet of Choice" primarily focuses on philosophical and spiritual understanding rather than offering specific policy solutions.
What is the historical context of "Only Planet of Choice"?
Published in 1993, the book emerged during a growing environmental movement but distinguished itself by focusing on esoteric and consciousness-based interpretations of ecological issues.
What are 'choice points' according to Palden Jenkins and Phyllis Schlemmer?
'Choice points' are critical junctures in human evolution, both individual and collective, where decisions made have profound and lasting consequences for the planet's trajectory.
🔮 Key Themes & Symbolism
Consciousness and Planetary Health
The book argues that the Earth's physical condition is not merely a result of material processes but is intimately tied to the collective consciousness of humanity. It suggests that shifts in human awareness, intention, and spiritual orientation are prerequisites for ecological balance. This perspective challenges purely materialistic explanations for environmental degradation and proposes that inner transformation is a vital component of planetary healing. The work posits a responsive Earth, influenced by the quality of human thought and feeling.
Choice Points in Evolution
Jenkins and Schlemmer introduce the concept of 'choice points' as critical moments in time where humanity collectively faces decisions that will shape its future and the planet's. These are not presented as singular events but as phases of evolutionary development where the direction taken has amplified consequences. Understanding these junctures, the book implies, requires a heightened awareness of our interconnectedness and the ethical responsibilities that accompany our choices, moving beyond short-term gains.
The Earth as a Living Entity
This theme frames the planet not as inert matter but as a dynamic, responsive entity with its own form of consciousness or life-force. This perspective draws from older esoteric traditions that viewed the Earth as sacred or alive. The book encourages a re-enchantment of the natural world, viewing ecological problems as symptoms of a fractured relationship with this living Earth. It advocates for a more reverent and participatory approach to our existence on the planet.
Spiritual Ecology
Positioned within the early development of spiritual ecology, the book seeks to integrate spiritual and metaphysical understandings with ecological concerns. It suggests that environmentalism, when divorced from a deeper spiritual context, will ultimately fail. The work calls for a holistic worldview where humanity sees itself not as separate from but as an integral part of the Earth's evolving consciousness. This approach emphasizes personal responsibility and the power of inner work.
💬 Memorable Quotes
“Our relationship with the planet is fundamentally a relationship with ourselves.”
— This statement highlights the book's core idea that external environmental issues are reflections of internal human states and collective consciousness. It suggests that true ecological solutions must begin with self-awareness and transformation.
“The Earth responds to the quality of our intention.”
— This paraphrased concept emphasizes the energetic and conscious dimension of our interaction with the planet. It implies that our inner focus and motivations carry weight and influence the Earth's state, going beyond mere physical actions.
“We are at a significant evolutionary choice point.”
— This reflects the book's concept of 'choice points,' suggesting that humanity is currently navigating a critical phase in its development where decisions made will have profound, long-term impacts on the planet.
“To heal the Earth, we must first heal our perception of it.”
— This interpretation underscores the book's emphasis on consciousness. It argues that changing our worldview and our understanding of our place in the natural order is a necessary precursor to effective environmental action.
“The planet's crisis is a crisis of consciousness.”
— This statement encapsulates the book's central argument: that environmental problems stem not just from physical factors but from a collective lack of awareness, spiritual disconnection, and flawed human consciousness.
🌙 Esoteric Significance
Tradition
This work aligns with esoteric traditions that view the Earth as a living, conscious entity, echoing sentiments found in Hermeticism, certain Gnostic cosmologies, and indigenous animistic beliefs. It departs from purely materialistic scientific views by positing that consciousness plays a direct, causal role in planetary well-being. The book attempts to synthesize these ancient ideas with modern ecological concerns, offering a spiritual lens through which to understand environmental challenges, rather than a purely scientific or political one.
Symbolism
The book frequently employs the concept of 'choice points' as a symbolic representation of critical junctures in evolutionary and planetary development. This motif signifies moments of profound decision-making where different futures diverge. Another implied symbol is the Earth itself, viewed not just as a physical sphere but as a 'planetary consciousness'—a living, responsive entity. This transforms the planet from an object of exploitation into a subject with whom humanity has a conscious relationship.
Modern Relevance
The ideas presented in "Only Planet of Choice" resonate with contemporary movements in eco-spirituality, deep ecology, and consciousness studies. Thinkers and practitioners exploring the psychosomatic aspects of environmental issues, the role of intention in healing, and the interconnectedness of all life can find a foundational exploration here. Its emphasis on the inner dimension of ecological crisis continues to be relevant for those seeking holistic solutions that address both external conditions and internal human states.
👥 Who Should Read This Book
• Aspiring eco-philosophers: Individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of the philosophical and spiritual underpinnings of environmentalism, moving beyond conventional ecological discourse. • Consciousness explorers: Readers interested in the relationship between human awareness, intention, and the physical world, particularly how inner states might influence external realities. • Students of esoteric traditions: Those curious about how ancient spiritual concepts can be applied to contemporary global challenges like climate change and ecological degradation.
📜 Historical Context
Published in 1993, "Only Planet of Choice" emerged during a period when environmental discourse was largely dominated by scientific data, policy debates, and grassroots activism focused on pollution and conservation. While figures like James Lovelock had already proposed the Gaia hypothesis, suggesting Earth is a self-regulating system, the integration of this with esoteric and consciousness-based frameworks was less common in mainstream discussion. This book positioned itself within a nascent spiritual ecology movement, which sought to connect ecological concerns with spiritual and metaphysical perspectives. It stood apart from secular environmentalism, drawing parallels with older esoteric traditions and contemporary spiritual thinkers. The early 1990s also saw a rise in New Age thought, which often explored interconnectedness and consciousness, providing a backdrop for such works. Contemporary authors like Joanna Macy were also exploring similar themes of ecological despair and spiritual renewal, though often from different philosophical starting points.
📔 Journal Prompts
Reflect on the concept of 'planetary consciousness' and your personal connection to it.
Identify a personal 'choice point' and its potential impact on your environment.
Consider the Earth not as an object but as a conscious entity; how does this shift your perspective?
Explore the idea that the 'Earth's crisis is a crisis of consciousness.'
How might your intentions, as discussed in the book, influence the 'quality of your relationship with the planet'?
🗂️ Glossary
Planetary Consciousness
The book's concept that the Earth possesses a form of awareness or life-force that responds to human thought, intention, and collective action, influencing its physical state.
Choice Points
Critical junctures in human or evolutionary development where the decisions made have profound and far-reaching consequences for the future trajectory of humanity and the planet.
Esoteric Ecology
An approach to environmentalism that integrates spiritual, metaphysical, and consciousness-based perspectives with ecological concerns, viewing the planet as a living, conscious entity.
Inner Transformation
The process of personal psychological and spiritual change that the book suggests is a necessary precursor to effective external action, particularly in addressing ecological issues.
Holistic View
An approach that emphasizes the interconnectedness of all aspects of a system, in this context, integrating psychological, spiritual, and ecological dimensions of human existence and planetary health.
Re-enchantment
The process of restoring a sense of wonder, sacredness, and vital connection to the natural world, countering a perceived disenchantment caused by materialistic or purely scientific worldviews.
Evolutionary Junctures
Similar to 'choice points,' these refer to significant moments or phases in the development of life or consciousness where a particular path is chosen, leading to specific outcomes.
