"There are many trajectories of development in Asia. Outside the mainstream, there are many marginalised, alternative futures. But it is the mainstream development of mega-metropolises, with all their glittering facets, that Asia proudly exhibits to the whole world with a sense of triumph and achievement. Asians seem to want to tell the West: We can do it better! In reality, this achievement comes at a tremendous cost, not only to humans, but also to other beings and the environment. Steadily growing, chronic, partly visible and partly unseen, Asia’s colossal crisis of the modern age is one of sustainability, of which a crisis of ecology, a crisis of justice, a crisis of compassion and a crisis of spirituality are all a part."
"Globalisation and technological progress have ushered us into a new era of development. Never before has the promise of the ‘Good Life’ in a hedonistic, consumerist utopia, been within reach for so many. Yet a significant portion of humanity is still unable to meet their basic needs. These trends are unsustainable, and beg the question: Where are we heading as a global community… and at what cost?
In 2005, M. Nadarajah embarked on a journey into the heart of Asia to research culturally imbedded notions of sustainable development. He met with the indigenous communities of the Henanga, Ainu, Lanna, Karen, Kankanaey, Balinese and several others. These cultures reside far from the problems of mainstream development, both physically and spiritually. Their lifestyles incorporate philosophies of interconnectedness; of the sacredness of nature; of the continuity of Past, Present and Future. Rather than offer notions of sustainable development, these life-affirming philosophies pave a pathway towards a deep sustainability.
On this path, we find answers to how we must change as a society in order for us to preserve our world for all future generations. But do we have the collective will to overcome our consumptive habits and start living responsibly? Living Pathways offers its readers a chance to meditate upon these questions. It provides meaningful directions towards the spiritual paths of sustainable communities we often take for granted. Above all, it shows the reader a picture of the world we live in as it could be, if only we choose to make it so."