Category: nature

#317: Between Enlightenment and Obscurity: Restoring the Democratic Promise of Science

Philipp Kneis

Abstract This essay examines science's enlightenment ideals of transparency and democratic knowledge against modern challenges. It traces humanity through three phases—pre-civilization, pre-modern civilization, and technology-driven modernity—highlighting how constant change creates instability. The author critiques both science denial and academic obscurantism, arguing that politicizing science (as with COVID-19 and climate change) breeds mistrust. While advocating for… Continue reading #317: Between Enlightenment and Obscurity: Restoring the Democratic Promise of Science

#300: Erratic Attempts: Crisis, Opportunity, and Simply Life

Philipp Kneis

Me, Myself & I With this being my 300th post on this blog, please allow me some thoughts of a more personal nature, hopefully though with some relevance for all of us. We all, I assume, want some sense of stability, of normalcy, of predictability. When we go to bed at night, we probably hope… Continue reading #300: Erratic Attempts: Crisis, Opportunity, and Simply Life

#225: Religion, Transcendence & Nature

Philipp Kneis1 Comment

The post explores the intersection of religion, transcendence, and nature, arguing that spiritual experience is deeply rooted in the natural world. It critiques dogmatic theology and calls for a more open, experiential understanding of the divine. Nature is presented as a source of awe, ethical reflection, and existential insight.

#200: The Nature Around Us

Philipp Kneis

A contemplative meditation on nature’s beauty and fragility. The post reflects on ecological interconnectedness and the spiritual value of the natural world. It calls for environmental stewardship and a deeper appreciation of life beyond human constructs.

#174: Climate Change Can Only Be Countered With Technological Innovation

Philipp Kneis1 Comment

Moral appeals and lifestyle changes are insufficient. Only large-scale technological solutions—renewable energy, carbon capture, geoengineering—can meet the urgency of climate collapse. Innovation must be prioritized over nostalgia or denial, and policy must reflect planetary-scale thinking

#139: Nature Demands Humility: Lessons from Jurassic Park World

Philipp Kneis

Jurassic Park is more than entertainment—it’s a cautionary tale about hubris. Human attempts to control nature inevitably backfire. The films illustrate how technological arrogance and corporate greed ignore ecological complexity. Real-world parallels abound, from climate change to pandemics. Nature isn’t ours to dominate; it demands respect.

#129: Pets Teach Empathy and How to Live

Philipp Kneis

Animals communicate through emotion, gesture, and presence. Learning to understand them teaches empathy more effectively than most human interactions. Living with pets reveals the depth of nonverbal connection and reminds us that simplicity, care, and mutual recognition are the foundations of a meaningful life.

Photos: Finley Wildlife Reserve, OR

Philipp Kneis

All Pictures:

#116: Religion Is Trust in the Universe

Philipp Kneis

Religion is reframed as existential trust—a belief in meaning, order, and connection beyond oneself. The post critiques dogma and presents spirituality as a posture of openness, humility, and ethical engagement with the unknown.

#115: Are We Anthropomorphizing Human Beings?

Philipp Kneis1 Comment

Modern discourse often treats people as characters in simplified narratives, stripping away complexity. The post critiques this tendency and calls for deeper understanding of human behavior, beyond stereotypes and performative identity.

#88: Nature Is the Best Meditation

Philipp Kneis

Meditation doesn’t require technique—it requires presence. Nature offers the most accessible path to mindfulness by decentering the self and inviting attention to the world beyond us. The post encourages readers to sit still, observe, and rediscover humility through the breath of the world.

Photos: The Many Seasons of Oregon, March 2021

Philipp Kneis

Locations: From Santiam Highway, Sisters, Smith Rock, Warm Springs, Dufur, The Dalles to Portland Related Photo Series Thread: Oregon Territory Slideshow: All Pictures: