A Deep Ecological Study Of Walden

This thesis is a deep ecological study on Walden. The concept of deep ecology wasput forward by Norwegian philosopher Arne Naess in1973. Then it gradually developedinto an ecological and environmental philosophy. There are two norms in deep ecologytheory: ecocentric equality and Self-realization and they have embodiments in Walden.Thoreau’s ecocentric equality consciousness could be found all through Walden. He tookhimself as a dweller in the woods by walden pond just like the other animals. He playedwith the loons, he thought the sound of the cows were as pleasant as the bard. The exampleof Self-realization could also be found when he let the always-hated mouse sit on his handto enjoy the cheese. He thought each life form had the Self-realization right. There areeight principles of deep ecology theory and they have embodiments in Walden. Thoreauadvocated the appreciation of intrinsic value and diversity of all life forms and also simpleliving. Thoreau’s respect for mouse’s right of Self-realization was also built on the basis ofhis appreciation of their intrinsic value. He adored the diversity of life forms in nature; inthe same time, he advocated simple living, we readers could see it from its self-built cabinand the vegetables he grew. The innovation of the thesis lies in the in-depth exploration ofthe concept of Ecosophy T. Arne Naess advocated everyone should form their ownecosophy when dealing with their relationship with nature. Thoreau formed his ecosophyin Walden and he encouraged youngsters to discover their own ecosophy. Thoreau’s twoyears’ living by walden pond triggered a trend in contemporary ecological writers andcommon people to discover their own ecosophy. It also influenced and inspired modernpeople.