Abstract

Modern American life has become increasingly complex. A paradigm shift is needed, and this transformation can be accomplished by cultivating the virtue of simplicity, with a deeper questioning and discovering of more lasting needs and interests. A voluntary simplification of life questions our over-consumptive lifestyles, especially the impact on the ecosphere. Simplifying our lifestyles helps us produce empowerment, equity, and justice. The virtue of simplicity addresses responsibilities to us, our families, our place, and to the environment and animals; it means giving to ourselves a higher quality of life. The principal advisor was Philip Cafaro.