Rea, Fiona
Nature as Sacred
An Examination of Ecological Practices in Contemporary Irish Neo-Paganism.
Master thesis, Master Research Master Theologie en Religiewetenschappen.
Abstract
This study explores the intersection between religion, ecology and science within
contemporary Irish neo-Paganism. Through the use of semi-structured interviews, it observes
how the neo-Pagan belief in the sacredness of nature encourages ecological values and proenvironmental behaviour. Guiding the study is Bron Taylor’s theory of ‘Dark Green Religion’,
that poses that when people view nature as sacred and worthy of reverent care, the belief system
creates a deep ecological awareness. The research highlights how the neo-Pagan participant’s
beliefs and rituals hold a deep connection to the landscape with participants having an
animistic, reciprocal relationship with the world around them, whilst viewing themselves as
interconnected with nature. This ecological worldview then translates into particular forms of
environmental activism including ‘magical activism’.
The research presents how Ireland’s complex colonial history encourages practitioners to
consciously reclaim and reconnect with pre-colonial traditions, making their relationship with
the land unique compared to other neo-Pagan practices found in Britain. Through the use of
the Irish language, practitioners believe that they can better engage in ritual and landscape, as
opposed to the use of the English language.
The findings demonstrate how Irish neo-Paganism integrates spirituality and ecology informed
by a historical consciousness. The study contributes to broader discussions surrounding the
relationship between religion and science by outlining how spiritual practices can harmonise
the two through ecological principles.
| Type: |
Thesis
(Master)
|
| Supervisors (RUG): |
| Supervisor | E-mail | Tutor organization | Tutor email |
|---|
| von Stuckrad, Kocku | C.K.M.von.Stuckrad@rug.nl | | |
|
| Supervisors from outside the RUG: |
| Tutor outside | E-mail | Tutor outside organization | Tutor outside email |
|---|
| Mantas España, Pedro | anoniem@gmail.com | | |
|
| Degree programme: |
Master Research Master Theologie en Religiewetenschappen |
| Academic year: |
2024-2025 |
| Date of delivery: |
03 Feb 2026 10:55 |
| Last modified: |
03 Feb 2026 10:55 |
| URI: |
https://rcs.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/894 |
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