Ecofeminism: Linking the Care of Earth and the Liberation of Women
Ecofeminism is an interdisciplinary field of thought and social movement that examines the relationships between the degradation of the natural world and the oppression of women. The term écoféminisme was coined in 1974 by French writer and activist Françoise d’Eaubonne, who argued that ecological crisis and patriarchal systems of power emerge from interconnected cultural patterns. Since its inception, ecofeminism has expanded into philosophy, theology, ethics, political ecology, environmental justice, and grassroots activism.
While ecofeminism encompasses diverse perspectives, several core themes are widely shared. Ecofeminist scholars explore how hierarchical systems shape relationships between humans and the natural world, examine the cultural associations between women and nature, and advocate for ecological and social systems grounded in reciprocity, care, and interdependence. The field also emphasizes that environmental challenges cannot be separated from questions of justice, culture, economics, and community.
Ecofeminism is not a unified philosophy. It includes several distinct traditions that continue to develop through dialogue and critique.
Cultural and Spiritual Ecofeminism explores the symbolic and spiritual relationships between women and the living Earth. Many writers in this tradition reclaim ancient images of the Earth as Mother or Goddess and draw upon earth-based spiritual practices.
Socialist and Materialist Ecofeminism examines how capitalism, colonialism, patriarchy, and economic systems contribute to both ecological degradation and social inequality.
Intersectional Ecofeminism considers how gender intersects with race, class, colonialism, and other forms of power in shaping environmental experiences and access to resources.
Indigenous and Global South Ecofeminisms center traditional ecological knowledge, land-based lifeways, food sovereignty, and community stewardship while emphasizing the importance of cultural context.
Today, ecofeminism continues to influence environmental ethics, regenerative agriculture, conservation, climate justice, religious studies, political ecology, and sustainability. Although its perspectives remain diverse, ecofeminism shares a central concern with cultivating relationships that support the flourishing of both human communities and the living Earth.
Selected Reading
Françoise d’Eaubonne — Le Féminisme ou la Mort (Feminism or Death)
Carolyn Merchant — The Death of Nature
Val Plumwood — Feminism and the Mastery of Nature
Karen J. Warren — Ecofeminist Philosophy
Maria Mies & Vandana Shiva — Ecofeminism
Vandana Shiva — Staying Alive: Women, Ecology and Survival in India
Starhawk — The Spiral Dance
Wangari Maathai — Unbowed
