Transformative Learning

In 1990, the year before the launch of Schumacher College, I went down to Dartington to discuss with Satish Kumar my possible involvement with the initiative. It was a Sliding Doors moment of choice, which in the event I decided not to pursue. As everyone knows, the college has been an extraordinary beacon over its thirty-year history, attracting a galaxy of leading thinkers to manifest and co-create Satish's vision of education for head, heart and hands which he also developed in his Small School. Over 50 short contributions celebrate the courses on holistic science, organic agriculture, regenerative economics, meaningful work, ecological spirituality, indigenous wisdom, home-growing of food and baking of bread, community and reflections from worldwide partners as well as alumni experiences. Within this one volume is an incredible richness of inspirational content.

It is now time to apply this holistic approach to the mainstream which, as Satish points out, has played a central role in deteriorating human conditions, based as it is on 'the study of the economy without understanding ecology, and the pursuit of materialism without spiritual values' where nature is simply an economic resource rather than being understood as 'the ultimate teacher and mentor'. Universities are focused on left hemisphere critical education of highly trained heads, while the heart is left to social life and hands to sport without any integrated approach. He points out that 'the conventional educational curriculum includes almost nothing about compassion, about a sense of service, about courage or about love!' It is also indifferent to the development of the imagination, and simply perpetuates business as usual. I urge you to read this landmark volume as a guide to a desirable human future of deep connection, genuine community and regeneration at every level.