Why I love Vandana Shiva:
A few years ago I went to see Vandana Shiva speak at the university. The lecture was called The Seed and the Spinning Wheel. She spoke about the genetic engineering of lifeforms and how dangerous this new technology was. She went into great detail explaining how biodiversity works and how our ecology depends on it. She also shared several stories about industrial agriculture versus small scale, family farming methods, water shortages caused by irresponsible practices, corporations patenting life forms, and the cultural impact of these acts on local peoples. The lecture left a huge impression in my mind and I decided to learn more about this intelligent, articulate, and caring woman.
Vandana Shiva is a quantum physicist, environmentalist, author, and womens rights activist. She is my hero because she cares about our world and about women in third world countries and because she provides a powerful example of what one woman can accomplish. Her foundation Navdanya does important work in promoting sovereignty of natural resources, bio-diversity and organics, and empowerment of women and children.
There is so much important work that Vandana Shiva does, I have neither the space nor the fortitude to include it all here. For more info please check out the links below.
"The primary threat to nature and people today comes from centralising and monopolising power and control. Not until diversity is made the logic of production will there be a chance for sustainability, justice and peace. Cultivating and conserving diversity is no luxury in our times: it is a survival imperative."
-Vandana Shiva
http://www.rightlivelihood.org/v-shiva.html
http://www.vandanashiva.org
http://www.navdanya.org
http://www.ecoworld.com/Home/Articles2
2 comments:
I've seen her speak, as well, and her ideas and convictions continue to inspire me years later. She is a great hero.
I am intrigued.
Perhaps you can suggest some reading material?
Claire Finnamore
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