5th ISA Forum of Sociology (6-11 July 2025)

In the Anthropocene era, the Earth has suffered from the consequences of human actions. The unrestricted exploitation of natural resources without sufficient consideration for the impact on the ecosystem is the root cause of climate change. Both humans and non-human species are affected by the increasingly extreme environmental catastrophes occurring worldwide. According to Lovelock and Margulis's paradigm, Gaia represents the interdependence of living organisms and their environment. A scientific approach that aligns with the holistic sensitivity found in religious beliefs about creation or an ordered cosmos (dharma), highlighting the interconnectedness of all living things from the macro to the micro level. The discussion focuses on how various religious groups engage with environmental issues, from institutional religious authorities to informal, trans-denominational groups.

The main research questions are as follows:

1. a) How do faith actors, from major religious authorities to spontaneous groups (often trans-denominational), interpret climate change and advocate for a concrete sustainable response, at local and global levels?
2. b) What spiritual and ethical resources do actors use to promote environmental respect within their communities, from liturgical practices to large events like pilgrimages?
3. c) What are the best practices (bridging social capital) that religious actors have contributed to creating by interacting both with other actors of faith and with the authorities (local, national, and international) about climate change?

d) How do religious institutions, movements and groups act in the public sphere in the face of the emergence of the New Climate Regime?