Understanding Eco Paralysis and the Compassion of Community

Abstract

As the effects on the climate intensifies due to the ongoing climate crisis, the psychological toll it carries does as well. This thesis aims to explore that phenomenon and the vocabulary created within the academic world to describe it. The very rational emotional and cognitive toll that the climate crisis carries manifests into what academics have described as “eco anxiety”. The eco anxiety experienced watching environmental degradation can devolve deeper into “eco paralysis”. This paralysis burdens the individual with an emotional and mental overload that leaves them in a state of immobilized fear and inaction. This paper draws from scientific and psychological research, existential philosophy, indigenous knowledge, and personal experiences to better understand eco anxiety and eco paralysis along with how each phenomenon comes to fruition. The response to these emotions is also explored through a solution-driven lens. Specifically looking at the ways community and involvement with local environments can address the concerns of eco anxiety and avoid eco paralysis. I examine the benefits that involvement in community projects like urban farms and community gardens has not only on environmental health but also on building the emotional infrastructure needed to address real climate-related concerns. Looking to Eugene, Oregon as a case study as well as sharing a personal narrative of my experiences in the local farming community in Eugene, this paper argues that community involvement and engagement in nature is essential for fostering positive and rational worry for the environment of eco anxiety and avoiding the overwhelming fear that accompanies eco paralysis.