Introduction: Ecological Wisdom as Discourse

Abstract

In this chapter, I argue that ecological wisdom (EW) is becoming an important social and ecological discourse. Discourses are language and frames that establish first principles which in turn guide action. The role of discourse in framing ecological debate, policies, and design is tremendously potent, especially in light of today’s significant intellectual, social, and ecological shifts. EW has been described by academics and scholar–practitioners as an “emerging field of scholarly inquiry,” a “benchmark” in planning and design, a “domain of knowledge,” and a “new framework for landscape and urban planning” (Fu et al. 2016; Liao and Chan 2016; Wang et al. 2016; Xaing 2014; Young 2016a). While most prominent in the fields of urban and regional landscape architecture and planning, I posit EW’s potential as a discourse encompassing the realms of material science, civil engineering, architecture, anthropology, philosophy, psychology, political and urban ecology, and a wide range of other disciplines. Responding to the epochal challenges facing our society and life itself, EW draws upon history, science, spirit, culture, and place in its development. Accordingly, it offers a compelling discourse to guide society toward a more meaningful and successful role within the ecosphere and in realizing its own possibilities.