If I were to describe theses films; The 11th Hour, Awakening the Dreamer and Collapse in three words it would be informative, appalling and constructive. Summarizing the trailers, related sources and the films, I have come to the conclusion that it focuses on our current status (as humans and the earth) and how we got here. I was shocked to find the amount of information that I was oblivious to. Numerous amounts of research and data collection has already been done pertaining to global warming. There is factual evidence that the earth is suffering!
The 11th Hour provided great insight on the issue of global warming and how our culture conformed to consumerism. I remember one of the scientists stating that our culture has developed a relationship separate from nature. Our cultural beliefs and practices have changed, now concentrating on new technologies and ourselves. We have ignored and taken advantage of the free resources that nature provides for us as human beings, for example plant and flower pollination and the tress converting carbon dioxide into oxygen. If we estimate the amount of money it would take to replace nature, it would cost us 35 trillion dollars a year. But, the economy could only support 18 trillion dollars a year. This means that we would not be able to support ourselves nor be able to disregard the natural resources. Nature is key for survival!
In Awakening the Dreamer, I was moved by the metaphor that is used to describe the idea for this film. Emphasizing the shared visions that our culture expect for our children, seems to be fading as the world remains as consumers and continues to increase in wasteful products/rubbish. We are raised to appreciate the beauty of nature and learn how to function with nature as one. For example, planting native plants on our UHH campus, chanting/singing for the Hawaiian Language Studies and providing Hawaiian Clubs like Kipuka. Through this film its obvious to recognize the disconnection between the human race and nature.
The film Collapse caused a little nervousness in me. Thoughts of human extinction are extremely worrisome and fearsome. However, Michael Ruppert, did provide very convincing factors that are believable to the possible extinction of the human race.
I have learned that our relationship with nature and our culture must be reconnected. Our cultural norms and values are to be re-evaluated and re-directed. I have also become aware of where we are in the fight against global warming. Current and future decisions are vital to sustain our environment and to provide suitable living conditions for future generations. This change begins at the government level then on to the individuals here on earth.
We also need to change our focus from technological progression and consumption to sustainability, culture and communication. Realize the cultural connection to nature and every forms of life. For example, farming on the land as a tribe or being able to trade and exchange food as the Hawaiians did in ancient times. Although we caused this situation of global warming and a cultural gap with nature, we have the capabilities to reconvene toward a new life style that is sustainable for humans, animals, and forest and at large, the atmosphere.
Ps: Treat Nature a Little More Gently
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