Environmentalism = Radicalism
Environmentalism does not need to engage with eco-terrorists by represent a radical culture-shifting enterprise. Even those who contribute to the movement by such humble acts ad gathering litter or planting tomatoes are disruptive forces. That is because environmental concerns for the well-being of the planet dislodge our culture's pursuit of ‘self-interest’, ‘self-fulfillment’, and ‘self-expression’. Such entrenched attitudes currently define most peoples’ identity and establish their aspirations.
Environmentalism’s radical transformation of these fundamental values occurs in two phases. First, it replaces ‘self’ with ‘community’. Second, it expands the definition of ‘community’ beyond fellow humans to encompass all forms of life – observable species that inhabit the planet’s water, air, and soil, as well as the multitudes of micro organisms that occupy these regions. Identity, aspiration, and responsibility are thereby propelled into regions above, below, and beyond ‘self’ to encompass the entire biosphere.
Such consciousness of co-species habitation of Earth recalibrates the standard reference points by which humans define ourselves. Measures of time exceed individual life-spans. Recognition of space expands beyond our bodies and our homes. Indicators of success surpass our individual well-being. Security is no longer a personal affair. However, personal responsibilities and management regimens are not omitted. They simple expand to include other humans and diverse species.