Geoskinology: Reflection
My e-concept is a dynamic fusion between two original concepts: skinology and geodisplacement. It is titled Geoskinology.
Skinology is a concept which allows us to take a closer look at how in the epoch of human waste and pollution, the cycle of pollution ends up back in our skin. Skinology provides a deeper glimpse into how the microscopic particles in the air around us impact our bodies and skin.
Geodisplacement is the physical and emotional displacement of species in the ecological world as a result of climate change. It provides a deeper perspective into the physical and geographical movement of climate refugees and other nonhumans. Bill McKibbens The End of Nature (1989) gives insight into how geodisplacement impacts humans and how it will continue to impact us.
Skinology + Geodisplacement = Geoskinology
My main e-concept is Geoskinology. Geoskinology is a comparison between the skin of humans and the surface of the earth. We are all living organisms and share characteristics which define our existences. Just like the human skin houses bacteria, the earth’s surface hosts humans.
Reading Natures has provided us with a deeper insight into the relationship between humans and the ecological world around us. It has given us a much needed break to reflect on our tendency to live anthropocentric lives. It has ultimately allowed us to live in a biocentric moment.
From studying ecomimesis, post humanism, post dualism and emerging worlds, I have gathered the concepts to create Geoskinology. Geoskinology, as well as the concepts it derives from, allows us to compare the magnitude of earth and the magnitude of our impact on it. Geoskinology provides us with the ability to reflect on the similarities and differences between humans and the biological beings living around us in the epoch of the anthropocene.
