Mother Jones - Comments for "The Yield of Magical Thinking: Better Agriculture Through Cosmic Rituals"

to steerpike
or building bridges out of them.

The article did not even touch upon the fact that anthroposophy and, thus, biodynamics, is based upon an aryan supremacy belief system. Just one example of what Steiner wrote: "We have before us in the American race a primitive aboriginal people that has remained far, far behind ... the Europeans have ascended to a higher level of culture, while the Indians have remained behind and become decadent. One must always pay attention to this evolutionary process." [Steiner, Menschheitsentwickelung und Christus-Erkenntnis p. 244] Unfortunately, where I live the anthrops are in total control of the organic certification process.

Perhaps things were better in the old days. In this case, we are right back to the Dark Ages, where mysterious forces made crops grow or sicken and die and were placated by ritual and sacrifice.

At least they are not burning witches.

My farm is practicing biodynamics, and everything you've printed is spot on. Great reporting! I especially appreciate your choice of the word "revere" to pair with the compost piles, as that is exactly how we see our own here. Sounds goofy, but the soil is everything, and getting it to a healthy state and maintaining it is an under-rated pursuit. Wonderful article!

What is often overlooked is that these practices, and their underlying spiritual principles, have been in use on this continent for thousands of years. Recognizing the spiritual connectedness of all life, its inter-dependencies, and the act of offering thanksgiving for sacrifice are all very fundamental to indigenous cultures. It is good to see it recognized by those serious enough to practice it, and in a position to make an impact from its use.

I for one do not skoff. If I can believe Jesus walks on water or through prayer can feed a multitude fish and chips, then I can also believe a little spiritual connection throughout the farming practice can have results. And you may laugh, but I have also personally proven it works in construction.

So why doesn't it have far reaching results (yet)? A: Read "The Hundredth Monkey".

Good article, God bless.

Personally, I think biodynamism is full of the same stuff its adherents put in the horns. At the same time, it forces growers to develop a better connection with their vines, which is not a bad thing.

Great piece. Well researched and told.
Have you seen the film about New Zealand's father of biodynamics and his work in India, where thousands of farmers have turned to the method to save their chemically destroyed soils.
One Man, One Cow, One Planet (aka How to Save the World) www.howtosavetheworld.co.nz