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by Alexander Shester (Author)
The Brilliant Earth: Nature and the Human Psyche offers a compilation of topics that discuss the current environmental predicament and what is realistically possible to counter the degradation of the natural world. Some subjects include the planet's intelligence in self-regulation and the importance of fungal mycelia and viruses coevolving with humans. It also describes human psychopathology as a contributing factor; the patriarchy, as it evolved from polytheism to monotheism, and the impact of various social institutions such as economics, politics, religion, psychology, education, and medicine, as contributing influences on the present state of environmental decline on the planet. The book includes sections on human pollution and the health of the oceans. The roots of this degradation are explored through historical and mythological examples. Additionally, the human gut microbiome ecosystem is described in relation to health and illness. A section on plastic pollution and microplastic contamination of humans is included. Various theories of doomsday scenarios through war, drought, economic collapse, climate change, viral and microbial epidemics, and the increasing impact of artificial intelligence are explored.
The science of ecology and ecosystems is described, especially as it relates to communication within nature through reciprocity, symbiosis, adaptability, interdependence, cooperation, and self-regulation. These concepts found in nature embody values that can be integrated into the human psyche, enabling us to become better stewards of the planet's health and survival. The Gaia hypothesis is reviewed, which may explain why the Earth is in itself a conscious entity. Fungi may be the brain of Earth, communicating with the roots of plants and animals about the ecosystem health necessary for thriving. The question raised is what can be considered consciousness, and what are the sources? The book includes a section titled the Ecozoic Era, which offers examples of how humans can participate in promoting planetary health to avoid an apocalyptic scenario.The author's original artwork amplifies the themes of this comprehensive primer on the mutual interactions between the natural world and Homo sapiens. Throughout the text, there are some additional pertinent quotes and images, as well as a meditation for orientation to nature. An extensive bibliography and suggested readings are also included.This book can be read as a standalone volume or as a companion to the author's two previous books, forming a comprehensive trilogy of the author's visionary philosophy. The first book, Visionary Healing: Psychedelic Medicine and Shamanism, includes his firsthand experiences in guided vision quests using entheogenic plants and shamanic techniques in a nature setting. The second book, Visionary Art, includes his original artwork with extensive commentaries. The current book is a comprehensive primer that presents many topics. For each subject, the author suggests consulting the original sources to obtain a richer, deeper understanding.
