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.

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Planet Earth is in crisis. A looming mass extinction of species, global warming, habitat destruction, diminishing supplies of fresh water and top soil, disappearing forests, polluted and over-fished oceans, increasing desertification, and massive social injustice, are all the result of human choices and non-sustainable ways of life. The gravity and complexity of this crisis call for an integral approach to the question of ecology. The word "integral" here suggests that ecology is relevant to the full range of human knowledge and action. All human endeavor needs to be ecologized. At the same time, ecology must draw from the whole spectrum of human inquiry, from the sciences (human, social, and natural), from the world's spiritual traditions (Eastern, Western, and indigenous), from collective wisdom and the insights of individual experience.

Thus the Integral Ecology Track in the PCC Program will pursue the study of ecology within the context of the enlarged vision of philosophy, cosmology, and consciousness that characterizes the PCC program as a whole. Central to this study is the recognition that at this moment 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: What is the nature of the human? Is the human a viable species? Does the Earth have a "purpose"? Is there such a thing as a cosmological ecology? How can inter-, multi-, and trans-disciplinary 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? Do other ways of knowing besides the cognitive (e.g., emotional, somatic, intuitive) have a part to play in responding to the ecological crisis? What roles do gender and sexuality play in the psychological and cultural dynamics of our ecological situation? What is the relationship between ecology and social justice?

PCC students on the Integral Ecology Track will explore such questions by participating in the integration of theory and practice, which takes place through work in the classroom as well as work in the field. IE students will have a variety of fieldwork opportunities, including courses in permaculture, internships, socially engaged projects, and more.

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MASTER OF ARTS (Philosophy and Religion) in PCC - Integral Ecology Track:

Introduction to Integral Ecology	3 units
Designated Integral Ecology Courses	6 units
Field-work/Internship	3 units
One Course in Each of Philosophy, Cosmology, and Consciousness	9 units
Straight Electives	13 units
Integrative Seminar	2 units
	36 units

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DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY (Philosophy and Religion) in PCC - Integral Ecology Track:

Designated Integral Ecology Courses	9 units
One Course in Each of Philosophy, Cosmology, and Consciousness	9 units
Straight Electives	18 units
PCC Comprehensive Exam
Second Comprehensive Exam in IE
At least one final Paper of Advanced Seminar Devoted to Theme of IE
Dissertation
	36 units

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