The Green Ages explores medieval sustainability practices, highlighting the Franciscans' radical poverty and communal living as models for modern eco-consciousness. While the book offers inspiring examples, it leaves unanswered questions about the feasibility of transplanting these practices into today's secular society.
The Green Ages by Annette Kehnel delves into medieval innovations in sustainability, presenting case studies like the Franciscans and beguinages as examples of communal living and resource management. The book argues that premodern societies had a better understanding of Earth's limitations and offers these historical models as inspiration for modern sustainability efforts. However, it raises questions about the practicality of adopting these practices today, especially given the cultural and social contexts that underpinned them. The book translates medieval concepts into modern terms like minimalism and eco-conscious living, but it acknowledges that the radical philosophies of figures like Diogenes and Francis of Assisi may be necessary to inspire significant change. Ultimately, the book suggests that while history can provide valuable insights, the challenge lies in finding a contemporary ideology powerful enough to drive sustainable living.
Quick quotes
There were times when we humans knew the limitations of our planet better than we do now
How far can the economic advantages of these sustainability initiatives realistically be disentangled from their cultural and social context?
Perhaps only the romance and drama of such transformative visions can be inspiring enough to encourage adherents to make huge sacrifices.