Chapter 15 Connectedness: Unpacking an essential factor of the Inner Development Goals
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Timo von Wirth
Abstract
Connectedness is one of the most fundamental human needs across cultures. Being able to connect has also been considered essential in diverse theories of leadership. Given its fundamental role, it is a logical consequence that connectedness is also presented as one factor of the Inner Development Goals (IDG). However, we argue for a deeper and pluralized understanding of connectedness, integrating perspectives from psychology, sociology, and sustainability science. This chapter offers three objectives: first, to present an interdisciplinary definition of connectedness as a key potential for inner development; second, to critically reflect on its embedded nature within the IDGs; and third, to examine the scientific evidence linking connectedness to sustainability-oriented action and stewardship. Despite limited knowledge on underlying processes, we underscore the importance of considering connectedness as a dynamic, unfolding process that transcends the traditional human-nature dichotomy. The chapter concludes with highlighting avenues for future research as well as practical implications for nurturing connectedness as an enabling condition.
Abstract
Connectedness is one of the most fundamental human needs across cultures. Being able to connect has also been considered essential in diverse theories of leadership. Given its fundamental role, it is a logical consequence that connectedness is also presented as one factor of the Inner Development Goals (IDG). However, we argue for a deeper and pluralized understanding of connectedness, integrating perspectives from psychology, sociology, and sustainability science. This chapter offers three objectives: first, to present an interdisciplinary definition of connectedness as a key potential for inner development; second, to critically reflect on its embedded nature within the IDGs; and third, to examine the scientific evidence linking connectedness to sustainability-oriented action and stewardship. Despite limited knowledge on underlying processes, we underscore the importance of considering connectedness as a dynamic, unfolding process that transcends the traditional human-nature dichotomy. The chapter concludes with highlighting avenues for future research as well as practical implications for nurturing connectedness as an enabling condition.
Kapitel in diesem Buch
- Frontmatter I
- Frontmatter VI
- Foreword IX
- Acknowledgments
- Editor biographies XVII
- Contents XIII
- Introduction to Volume I 1
-
Section 1: Being nature
- Chapter 1 Prelude 7
- Chapter 2 “Being” as the core IDG methodology: Why being holds successful IDGs together 13
- Chapter 3 Unlocking collective potential: The IDG experience through bread baking– manifesting narrative playfulness, wonder, and imagination 33
- Chapter 4 Outdoor eco-embodiment: A place-responsive integration of the IDG framework 49
- Chapter 5 Relating: Connecting as nature – an IDG practice towards relational, collective leadership grounded in ecocentrism 65
- Chapter 6 The transformative power of colors: Cultivating connection, collaboration, and sensemaking through art 87
-
Section 2: Ancient wisdom
- Chapter 7 Prelude 103
- Chapter 8 Inner sustainability for global transformation: Living and leading from the essence of our being 109
- Chapter 9 Re-attuning to nature’s rhythms: The Chinese art of being, relating, and acting 131
- Chapter 10 Zen wisdom: When the Ten Bulls encountered the Inner Development Goals 149
- Chapter 11 Seasonal Circles of Change: A roadmap to embody the IDGs so we can co-create change 175
- Chapter 12 Systems Leadership: An inner and outer journey in the Brazilian Amazon rainforest 193
-
Section 3: Interbeing
- Chapter 13 Prelude 207
- Chapter 14 Beyond individualism: A multilevel approach to the Inner Development Goals 213
- Chapter 15 Connectedness: Unpacking an essential factor of the Inner Development Goals 235
- Chapter 16 Listening beyond words: Building trust, nurturing relationships, and crafting impactful change 253
- Chapter 17 The Experience Cube: A model to increase being, relating, and collaborating for collective leadership 269
- Chapter 18 Contemplating or confronting? How the Inner Development Goals can activate reflexivity through Q methodology 291
- Chapter 19 Forgiveness and the missing IDG skill: From surviving genocide to leading the Rwanda Peace Education Programme 313
- Chapter 20 Nonviolent Communication is an Inner Development Booster 323
- Index
- Contributor Biographies
- Endorsements
Kapitel in diesem Buch
- Frontmatter I
- Frontmatter VI
- Foreword IX
- Acknowledgments
- Editor biographies XVII
- Contents XIII
- Introduction to Volume I 1
-
Section 1: Being nature
- Chapter 1 Prelude 7
- Chapter 2 “Being” as the core IDG methodology: Why being holds successful IDGs together 13
- Chapter 3 Unlocking collective potential: The IDG experience through bread baking– manifesting narrative playfulness, wonder, and imagination 33
- Chapter 4 Outdoor eco-embodiment: A place-responsive integration of the IDG framework 49
- Chapter 5 Relating: Connecting as nature – an IDG practice towards relational, collective leadership grounded in ecocentrism 65
- Chapter 6 The transformative power of colors: Cultivating connection, collaboration, and sensemaking through art 87
-
Section 2: Ancient wisdom
- Chapter 7 Prelude 103
- Chapter 8 Inner sustainability for global transformation: Living and leading from the essence of our being 109
- Chapter 9 Re-attuning to nature’s rhythms: The Chinese art of being, relating, and acting 131
- Chapter 10 Zen wisdom: When the Ten Bulls encountered the Inner Development Goals 149
- Chapter 11 Seasonal Circles of Change: A roadmap to embody the IDGs so we can co-create change 175
- Chapter 12 Systems Leadership: An inner and outer journey in the Brazilian Amazon rainforest 193
-
Section 3: Interbeing
- Chapter 13 Prelude 207
- Chapter 14 Beyond individualism: A multilevel approach to the Inner Development Goals 213
- Chapter 15 Connectedness: Unpacking an essential factor of the Inner Development Goals 235
- Chapter 16 Listening beyond words: Building trust, nurturing relationships, and crafting impactful change 253
- Chapter 17 The Experience Cube: A model to increase being, relating, and collaborating for collective leadership 269
- Chapter 18 Contemplating or confronting? How the Inner Development Goals can activate reflexivity through Q methodology 291
- Chapter 19 Forgiveness and the missing IDG skill: From surviving genocide to leading the Rwanda Peace Education Programme 313
- Chapter 20 Nonviolent Communication is an Inner Development Booster 323
- Index
- Contributor Biographies
- Endorsements