(Re-)Learning to Relate to the More-Than-Human

Some Conceptual, Affective, and Practice-Based Perspectives

Authors

• Marzia Varutti University of Geneva https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6620-3391

DOI: https://doi.org/10.30676/jfas.141513

Abstract

The lack of concerted action by the majority of the population in the face of the global ecological catastrophe compels us to ponder the deeper cause of inaction: a troubled relationship with the more-than-human world. Redressing this relationship and (re-)learning to relate to the more-than-human calls for a critical analysis of current modes of relation, as well as a quest for different, more ecological (ethical, responsible, reciprocal, affective) ways to relate. This article engages with these two processes through three interrelated perspectives: conceptual, affective, and practice-based.

On a conceptual level, I propose to rethink how we relate to the more-than-human through the lenses of kinship. I suggest that, when these reformed relationalities are imbued with affect and ecological awareness (through the affective and relational perspectives of biophilia and correspondence), specific forms of attention emerge, as we are no longer dispassionate observers but affectively engaged participants. I call this ‘empathetic attention’.

I explore the ways in which these conceptual stances and affective intensities can come together in enactments and practice—such as mourning ceremonies for ecological losses. I argue that these enactments constitute ‘ecological practices’ as they substantiate relationalities based on care, and more sustainable ways of thinking, feeling, and acting towards the more-than-human world.

Keywords: relationship, affect, emotions, practice, attention, ecology, kinship