Foundations of Integral Ecology

On Feb. 28, the presentation of the volume Foundations of Integral Ecology will take place in Room C012, in which the various Authors aim to analyze the "foundations" of one of the main insights of the Encyclical Laudato si' (LS): integral ecology, a complex and multidimensional concept that unfolds from a long-term perspective. It calls for a new language and vision that, going beyond the mere environmental dimension, offers ample room for research and development in a multiplicity of fields.

An adequate deepening of integral ecology requires the adoption of an interdisciplinary approach, based on the awareness that everything is intimately interconnected. With this in mind, this volume is intended to consolidate a dialogue under three different perspectives: social sciences, philosophy and theology. Each of them is investigated through various contributions aimed at answering the question "what are the foundations of integral ecology?" while trying to identify operational paths for the future. The various contributions in the book make it clear that we are facing a cultural, spiritual and educational challenge that highlights the need for a real "change of course." At the same time, the book remains a harbinger of hope, recognizing that the ecological crisis represents both a challenge and an opportunity, a privileged moment of stimulus for "conversion" - individual and communal - and more authentic living.

The presentation on Feb. 28 will attempt to analyze the three aforementioned perspectives, thanks to the interventions of three Academics capable of "entering into dialogue" with other disciplines: Prof. Fr. Mauro Mantovani, professor of Theoretical Philosophy at the Pontifical Salesian University, of which he was Rector; Prof. Marco Magnani, professor of International Economics at LUISS; and Prof. Stella Morra, professor of Theology at the Pontifical Gregorian University, in which she is also Director of the "Alberto Hurtado" Centre for Faith and Culture.