I really appreciate this metaphor of "renting" the Earth. I'd add that, specifically in the US, one reason we treat the world around us like renters is the myth of the frontier. Our dominant society was built on the belief that constantly migrating to a new place is inherently good, progressive, and the best way to address life problems. This was always problematic, of course, and the American frontier has been officially closed since 1903 (if memory serves), but the myth remains strong.
I really appreciate this metaphor of "renting" the Earth. I'd add that, specifically in the US, one reason we treat the world around us like renters is the myth of the frontier. Our dominant society was built on the belief that constantly migrating to a new place is inherently good, progressive, and the best way to address life problems. This was always problematic, of course, and the American frontier has been officially closed since 1903 (if memory serves), but the myth remains strong.
So true! Great article!