Abstract:
Because of the personal, social, economic, and environmental impacts of material
consumption, resistance is afoot. The creation of new places is a tool used by those
resisting the negative aspects of consumer culture. One example is the ecovillage: an
intentional community whose members strive to live in a socially and environmentally
sustainable manner, to practice voluntary simplicity, and to cultivate meaning, life
satisfaction, and fulfillment. This research involves a case study of EcoVillage at Ithaca,
located in New York, the goal of which is to create a model of sustainable living that is
appealing to mainstream America, reduce the ecological footprint of inhabitants and
increase meaningful relationships within the community. Through its educational mission
and accompanying outreach, EcoVillage at Ithaca models an alternative to middle-class,
mainstream American culture. EcoVillage at Ithaca's impact beyond the lives of the individual residents demonstrates its effectiveness as a space of resistance to consumer
society.