Do we need religion or philosophy to help us perceive the value of nature?
In my opinion we do not need religion or philosophy to help us perceive the value of nature. One can be nonreligious or without a sense of philosophy and still perceive the value of nature.
Is religion or philosophy essentially a “private matter of personal faith” or is it a necessary prerequisite to create a community response to an environmental crisis?
Religion is a private matter of personal faith. However with most things that people feel strongly about, sharing is necessary; therefore religion is not always a private matter but a public one. As seen throughout history religion is a strong guiding factor in not only a personal life but government, country, and other guiding forces of the world.
With the previous ideas in mind I would think that religion may not be a prerequisite to create a community response to an environmental crisis but a partner. If one thinks about the power that religion can and does wield why not try using it positively and save the world? Religion is supposed to be a positive force that brings people together with love and respect. However, we see the power of religion pulling people apart on a daily basis so trying to guide such a power could be a tricky job indeed.
