Philosophy, Cosmology, and Consciousness at the California Institute of Integral Studies
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ACADEMICS
INTEGRAL ECOLOGY TRACK

Study the complex character of the Earth community, the factors that threaten it, and possibilities for a better way forward. Explore some of the vital links between ecology and such fields as philosophy, religion, psychology, and cosmology. Learn strategies for a sustainable future in a creative community of planetary citizens.


The gravity and complexity of the global ecological crisis calls for an integral approach to ecology. At a minimum, such an approach would broaden and deepen the study of ecology through active engagement with the humanities and social sciences. In its more fully realized sense, the word "integral" here suggests that ecology is relevant to the full range of human knowledge and action. At the same time, an integral ecology must draw from the whole spectrum of human inquiry, from the sciences (human, social, and natural), from the world’s spiritual traditions (Asian, Western, and indigenous), from collective wisdom and the insights of individual experience.

Living with the Earth

The Integral Ecology track focuses on ecology in the context of the transdisciplinary vision of philosophy, cosmology, and consciousness that characterizes the PCC program as a whole. Central to this vision is the recognition that the key factor determining the health of the Earth’s biosphere is the behavior of human beings, and that therefore many of the most important issues in the study of a truly integral ecology lie in the areas of human thought, psychology, and culture. The search for solutions to ecological problems must include as a central concern the transformation of human conceptual, psychological, and cultural patterns that have now become an imminent danger to the health of the entire Earth community, and the cultivation of new structures of human experience and action that are more harmoniously aligned with the natural world and the larger cosmic order within which we dwell.

Faculty and students in the PCC Integral Ecology track will explore together questions such as these: What is the nature of the human? Does the Earth have a purpose? How can transdisciplinary thinking and perspectives assist us in envisioning ecological solutions? How do myths and symbols affect our attitude to the natural world? Do the world’s religions and esoteric traditions have a contribution to make to the task of restoring ecological balance? Why are our philosophies divorced from the Earth? Why do our universities fragment knowledge? What kinds of direct experience and engagement with nature could help us become more aware and effective in dealing with the planetary emergency? What is the relationship between ecology and social justice?


M.A. Curriculum
PCC Integral Ecology Track

Required Courses (4 units)

1 unitIntroduction to Philosophy, Cosmology, and Consciousness seminar
3 unitsIntegrative Seminar - The purpose of this seminar is to give graduating students structure and support to integrate their journey through the M.A. program and to help them prepare their next steps after graduation. During the course, students work on a portfolio or project, such as a publishable essay, business plan, or course plan, among other options. The culmination of the course is a public presentation on a topic of the student’s choice.

Integral Ecology Emphasis (12 units)

3 unitsPerspectives on Integral Ecology seminar
6 unitsIntegral Ecology electives (see Course List)
3 unitsindividualized fieldwork or internship

Electives (14 units) - At least 9 of which must be taken within PCC. Please see the PCC Course List for typical course offerings.

Philosophy and Religion Courses Outside PCC (6 units)

3 unitsfrom the Asian and Comparative Studies concentration
3 unitsfrom the Women's Spirituality concentration

Total Units for Degree: 36 units


Ph.D. Curriculum
PCC Integral Ecology Track

While most courses are open to both MA and PhD students, doctoral students engage with the material at a deeper level and with a greater degree of academic rigor and precision. PhD students in Integral Ecology weave a lived understanding of the pressing issues of our current time into a cogent and well-articulated analysis in class, conferences, and the community. The doctoral curriculum consists of 36 semester units of coursework plus comprehensive exams, a dissertation proposal, and a dissertation.

Introduction to Philosophy, Cosmology, and Consciousness seminar (1 unit) - Not required for graduates of the PCC MA program. PCC MA graduates should select an additional 1 unit of electives.

Integral Ecology Emphasis (9 units) - 9 units of designated Integral Ecology courses (See Course List)
Final paper of one Advanced Seminar devoted to theme of Integral Ecology
Second comprehensive exam in Integral Ecology

Electives (26 units) - At least 18 of which must be taken within PCC. Please see the PCC Course List for typical course offerings.
Doctoral students are strongly encouraged to enroll in the dissertation writing seminars (Dissertation Writing I and II).

Two Comprehensive Exams

Dissertation

Total Units for Degree: 36 units