Even a river can die. What if we saw it as a person, not just a resource?
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In this episode of _Creation’s Paths_, Charlie and Brian explore **animism**, the belief that the world is filled with persons—only some of whom are human. They discuss how recognizing **the personhood of nature**, objects, and even everyday items like cups or computers fosters **a deeper, more respectful relationship with the world**.
Charlie argues that **animism is a philosophical choice with profound spiritual and legal implications**, rather than a primitive belief system. They highlight **real-world applications** of animism, including **New Zealand's legal recognition of rivers as persons** and how this perspective shifts environmentalism from resource exploitation to **stewardship**.
Brian shares personal insights on how **animism helps cultivate patience, gratitude, and ethical living**. They discuss the **role of animism in magic, spirituality, and law**, demonstrating how seeing the world as full of persons—not objects—can transform daily interactions, from how we treat the land to how we care for our possessions.
The episode also touches on **spiritual practices** tied to animism, the difference between **idolatry and right relationship**, and how recognizing the **life cycle of objects** can aid in **recycling, sustainability, and emotional well-being**.
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## Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Animism
01:11 Hosts Introduction
01:26 Misconceptions About Animism
03:07 Philosophical Perspective of Animism
03:51 Environmental Implications of Animism
04:32 Personalizing Everyday Objects
08:29 Legal and Cultural Examples of Animism
09:56 Animism in Daily Life
14:25 Animism and Idolatry
20:39 Practical Applications of Animism
28:56 Conclusion and Call to Action
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