Illichian Conviviality and Hanhian Maitri (Love) for Sustainability: Adolescent Mindfulness

• In Event: 66.079 - Roundtable Session 25
  In Roundtable Session: 66.079-10 - (Re)considering Conviviality

Abstract

This essay is a conceptual analysis using qualitative methodology to examine data obtained from eighth graders in one urban school. Their compiled anthology entitled “Breaking Free” is examined. The assignment is, “I am” and “I am from,” where prompts provided by teachers guide students’ writings/ poems. Five students’ expressions of matri (love) from Thich Nhat Hanh and conviviality from Illich are presented capturing in significant ways students’ interconnectedness with the human and more-than-human worlds, along with how they define the “self.” As their voices show, to step beyond common misunderstandings of earth as inanimate, and to fall in love with the earth, is also to fall in love with the self (Hanhian matri) thus perhaps finding Illichian wisdom of conviviality.

Author

• Dilafruz R. Williams, Portland State University