Sacred Economics by Charles Eisenstein [PART ONE]

This month we're reading Part One of Sacred Economics by Charles Eisenstein

About this book: This book is about how the money system can change to embody this transition, and how we might change in tandem. A broadly integrated synthesis of theory, policy, and practice, Sacred Economics explores avant-garde concepts of the New Economics, including negative-interest currencies, local currencies, gift economics, and the restoration of the commons. Author Charles Eisenstein also considers the personal dimensions of this transition, speaking to those concerned with “right livelihood” and how to live according to their ideals in a world seemingly ruled by money. Tapping into a rich lineage of conventional and unconventional economic thought, Sacred Economics presents a vision that is original yet commonsense, radical yet gentle, and increasingly relevant as the crises of our civilization deepen.

About the author: Charles Eisenstein (born 1967) is an American public speaker, author, and activist. His books include The Ascent of Humanity, Sacred Economics, and The More Beautiful World Our Hearts Know is Possible. Eisenstein's work covers a wide range of topics, including the history of human civilization, economics, spirituality, and the ecology movement. Key themes explored include anti-consumerism, interdependence, and how myth and narrative influence culture. According to Eisenstein, global culture is immersed in a destructive "story of separation", and one of the main goals of his work is to present an alternative "story of interbeing". Much of his work draws on ideas from Eastern philosophy, the spiritual teachings of various indigenous peoples, the New Age, and conspiracy theory, including various forms of popular pseudoscience, including anti-vaccine misinformation. As an activist, Eisenstein has been involved in the Occupy and New Economymovements. He has promoted eco-villages, permaculture, local currencies, gift economies, economic degrowth and universal basic income. Noting the influence of conspiracy theories on Eisenstein's writing and activism, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, Matthew Remski described him as the "poet philosopher of conspirituality."[1][2] Eisenstein was a senior advisor for Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s 2024 presidential campaign.[3]

About the host: Recognized by Forbes in 2021 for her award winning, socially conscious business models, Lauren Burgess is redefining the “American Dream” and helping others do the same. With over a decade of dynamic business experience and a masters degree in Educational Psychology, Lauren supports executives, creatives, and entrepreneurs alike fund, launch, organize, grow, and pivot within their industry.