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Weaving Worlds : Centering Reciprocal Relationality in the shift away from the ‘Ex-Con’ Economy and Cristina Spirulina and the Circular Schema

Acevedo Planter, Maya Casilda

This paper critically examines the role of human exceptionalism in perpetuating the exploitative dominant linear economic system, or “ex-con” economics, and its detrimental impact on relationality. It explores some of the deeply entrenched self-replicating dynamics of coloniality within the Euro-USian Western worldview, particularly focusing on the dynamics of knowledge creation, narratives, and education. It argues that cultivating reciprocal relationality—an understanding of our interconnectedness and responsibilities towards the Earth, each other, non-human beings, and the spiritual realm—is essential to shift towards more sustainable economic practices. Focusing on North America, and grounded in decolonial theory, queer eco- feminist theory, and critical creative pedagogy, this paper critiques the Euro-USian Western paradigm and centers Indigenous voices to advocate for a radical shift towards respectful ways of relating to the Earth. Through the creative writing of a children's book titled Cristina Spirulina and the Circular Schema (included at the end of this submission), I highlight the potential of storytelling to ground children in reciprocal relationality and introduce them to circular economy principles as a viable possible alternative. This paper posits that fostering reciprocal relationality, particularly in children, is crucial for creating the conditions necessary for a successful transition of economic systems and addressing the urgent environmental crises we face.

Text

2025-04-30

Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International

http://hdl.handle.net/2429/90916

UBCV

Graduate

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/