Review and Response to Radical Ecopsychology: Psychology in the Service of Life (2nd Ed.) by Andy Fisher

Abstract

Reviews recent publication of the new edition of Radical Ecopsychology by Andy Fisher, PhD, and responds to some of Fisher's more provocative points concerning the direction of ecopsychology as a field that endeavors to remedy the imbalance between humans and nature. Supports Fisher's argument that it would be irresponsible to elevate a goal of acceptance of ecopsychology by mainstream psychology over the formative task of ecopsychologists to precipitate the social change that is necessary to avert impending global ecological disaster. Criticizes Fisher for failing to address the advent of social media and its transformative potential in the context of Fisher's identification of technological progress as the principal culprit in the ecological crisis. Concerning the argument between first- and second-generation ecopsychologists over the proper role of science in advancing our cause, proposes that quantum physics and systems theory are natural allies to ecopsychology that could lend valuable support to its holistic, naturalistic views. Criticizes Fisher's most recent advocacy of eco-socialism as a substitute for capitalism as unrealistic, and proposes the alternative of adopting a more transformative approach to capitalism's excesses, such as those being advanced by organizations like Share The World's Resources, which would constrain capitalism by establishing a global resource commons. Finally, responds to Fisher's acknowledgment of the need for a viable counter-myth to that of material (not technological) progress and the American Dream by suggesting that a new myth of radical interdependence is already emerging, with Earthrise as its iconic symbol.