Attitudes and Behaviors of Neopagans Toward Nature

Abstract

Neopaganism in Central and NorthernEurope is a small religious movement that has continuously grown over the last few centuries. It emphasizes the veneration of nature, especially of the forest. Ancient cultures serve as examples for respectful attitudes toward nature, providing guidance for Neopagans in search of their own roots. In this article, we present the results of an online survey conducted with 101 Neopagans between January and February 2011. Based on the sensemaking approach, we aim to clarify attitudes and resulting behaviors of Neopagans toward nature in general and the forest and trees in particular. The results indicate particular uses of nature as well as its spiritually and ideologically motivated veneration. Consequently, the mystification of nature combined with a biocentric worldview implies entirely new rules in dealing with nature, especially with trees. This movement provides answers to the current social longing for life in touch with nature by attempting to revive ancient practices and beliefs. Furthermore, the Neopagan movement also tries to separate from society by placing humankind on an equal level with nature and criticizing society for the domination of nature.

A Flexible Inventory of Survey Items for Environmental Concepts Generated via Special Attention to Content Validity and Item Response Theory

“…Sacredness is the degree that one believes nature is sacred in the sense of having a character beyond what is material or secular. This concept receives perennial attention from various perspectives, including theologies of organized religions and beliefs associated with Indigenous culture and Neopaganism (e.g., [53][54][55][56][57]).…”