Globalization: Unity, Extirpation, Extinction, or Disaster?

Silver Donald's interview with Dr. Gregory Cajete is thought-provoking, to say the least. Cajete describes globalization as the "economic colonization of the world for profit." Nothing could be farther removed from the thinking and traditions of nearly all indigenous peoples of the world, including us (Cajete points out that we were once an indigenous people too). Indigenous peoples have always considered themselves as integral parts of the whole inter-relationship of plants, animals, and the environment. They have respect for all creatures and for nature. Modern industrial societies do not. They see themselves as "in control" and have little respect for anything else. This is partly why we are in such a mess now. Human expansion has driven animals from their habitats, destroyed the productivity of land areas, and even caused the extinction of some animals and plants. If we are to avoid disaster, we have to achieve balance. Cajete believes we must treat the earth and its inhabitants with great respect and great care. He points out that there is "unity in diversity," and respect for others and for nature, typical of indigenous people, is something we all must develop. Our survival depends on it.