Karma and Conservation: Unifying Hindu Philosophy and Environmental Consciousness

Introduction

The historian Lynn White Ir penned a piece for Science in 1967 discussing the ecological problem' historical causes. White contends that people's actions towards their surroundings are influenced by their perception of their place in nature (White, 1967). He further claimed that the teachings of late medieval Latin Christianity, which saw humans as superior to the rest of God's creation and everything else as made for human use and enjoyment, are to blame for the exploitative viewpoint that has caused much of the environmental crisis, particularly within Europe and North America (White, 1978). He proposed that rejecting the idea that nature exists only to serve humankind is the only way to address the ecological crisis. Thereby, Scientists, theologians, and environmentalists were forced to discuss White's claim that religion was to blame for the ecological crisis (Muller, 2009). Throughout the discussion, instances from various cultures were used to bolster the argument that environmental exploitation has been ruthless even in nations where there is a strong religious reverence for the natural world, nations where Hinduism is practiced. Practices of Buddhism, Taoism, and Shintoism were mentioned in support of Thomas Derr's criticism (Diwedi, 2001). Here, Derr's claim regarding the contribution of Hinduism to the ecological catastrophe is contested. We must comprehend how a Hindu's perspective on nature has been influenced by his religion's understanding of the universe and creation (Retnaselvam & Singh, 2019). Such an explanation is required to clarify Hindu customs and beliefs, and consequently, the historical significance of Hinduism about environmental degradation by humans. About this, Hinduism shimmers as a beacon of age-old wisdom among the many and varied philosophical traditions by offering a profound comprehension of the complex interrelationship between humans and nature (Mallik, 2022). Hindu philosophy, which has its roots in religious texts, philosophical writings, and spiritual practices, offers a distinctive perspective on how all living things are interdependent with their surroundings. Hindu philosophy revolves around a holistic worldview, which is the conviction that the universe functions as a dynamic, interconnected web. This interconnectedness proposes an illustration of humanity as merely one strand in the enormous artwork of existence by extending beyond human relationships to encompass the natural environment as a whole. Significant principles like Dharma, Karma, and Ahimsa operate as an ethical compass, leading people in the direction of peaceful coexistence with the natural world.

Dharma, which is often translated as “righteous duty,” encompasses everyone's obligation to promote harmony and order in the universe at large (Muthuswamy, 2018). The concept also entails sustainable practices in the context of environmental consciousness by appreciating the intrinsic value of all living forms in cosmic dance and their interconnectedness. Whereas, the notion that every human action has implications for both individuals and the ecosystem is furthered by the concept of karma, which is referred to as “action and consequence” (Ghose, 2007). This concept entails a thoughtful way of living that promotes environmental stewardship by coordinating actions with the greater good. Similarly, the sect of ethics in Hinduism centers on the belief of ahimsa, or non-violence. The concept of ahimsa draws close attention to the need to treat all living things with compassion and reduce environmental harm while traversing lightly on Earth (Godrej, 2010).