University of Macau Library

Author: Gassner, Franz
Title: Science and Laudato Si’ on the paradigm shift towards sustainable development
Journal Name: The Journal of the Macau Ricci Institute
Pub. Info: Jun. 2018, No. 2, pp. 24-35
Link: http://mrijournal.riccimac.org/articles/issue_02/MRI_Journal_Issue_Two.pdf
Abstract: For sustainability researchers and global policy makers it is lucid clear that a radical turnaround of modern societies is needed to approach sustainable development paths. Pope Francis takes his stand on a basic paradigm shift in his Encyclical Letter Laudato Si’: Care for our Common Home (2015). He calls for a radical shift of mindsets and ecological and cultural conversion which are needed for sustainability and a life in dignity for all. The author compares aspects from sustainability research and Laudato Si’ and shows how science and Francis spiritual-theological take converge. Both call for the need of new mindsets and spiritual resources to nourish just life-styles and sustainable societies. Paragraph Headings: 1. Respecting planetary boundaries and guard gails 2. Cultural gransformation towards sustainable lifestyles 3. Resource responsibility and strict application of the waste hierarchy 4. The sustainability strategy efficiency-consistency-sufficiency 5. Spirituality for sufficient and sustainable life-styles