ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the ecological significance of cosmic consciousness and its relevance to both our historical and contemporary understanding of Spiritual but Not Religious (SBNR). Drawing on the work of Walt Whitman, Richard M. Bucke, and Edward Carpenter, the chapter suggests that the concept of cosmic consciousness presents an alternative way of thinking about nature that can be utilized by contemporary theorists interested in learning more about the connection between spirituality and ecology and what this connection could mean for our understanding of environmental ethics and the future direction of the SBNR. In essence, this chapter argues for the inclusion of a heightened, articulated ecological awareness as a crucial element in any future iteration of the SBNR.
