This is a periodic posting for the ecopath discussion
list.

This is an unmoderated list for topics related to living
ecologically.

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Change is one constant we must live with and anticipate.
I've been thinking about how this and looking at how
the world views ecological living.  Things have changed
significantly in the last few years.  Here in the US
we have a strong anti-environment mood that appears
to be nurtured by business.  On the internet this has
impacted eco discussions and some have become
less optimistic.  Many have  ventured into
political debate.

Locally we had a election to approve labeling of Genetic
Engineered food.  Initially, the polls showed it had
over 70 percent of the votes.  The opposition (business)
spent 5.5 million in a advertising campaign and the
voters switched sides.  In the end only about 30 percent
of the votes were for labeling GE foods.

This was clear win of economics over caution.  It is
true that the economy isn't doing well but for
most of the voters i believe the greed factors was
present.  Both greed and fear were used to trump
thoughts about the future and prevent thoughtful debate.

On another level all this can be viewed as short term
survival without regard for the future.  We are at
war and do not have the time to consider improvements
or new ideas.  There is the war on terrorism, the war
on drugs, the war for family values, etc.

Those that promote eco change have reacted in various
ways.  Some have dropped out.  Other have become very
radical and frustrated.  A few have entrenched and vowed
to continue the fight.  Each of us has reacted differently.

My reaction is to look at the factors shaping and influencing
current change and try to understand them.  In this case
it appears to be the economics of capitalism, a very
influential media, a urban dominated society, and corporations
that now dominate politics.  If this is true then reforms need to
focus on these factors.

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The archives for ecopath can be found on the web at:
  HTTP://www.mail-archive.com/ecopath@;csf.colorado.edu

  Past discussions included:         gardening, oil, weather
                                     information sources, 
                                     argoforestry, consumerism,
                                     permaculture, contentment.

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jeff owens, [EMAIL PROTECTED]

  You must be the change you wish to see in the world.
  -- Mahatma Gandhi

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