Abstract

In an era marked by ecological instability, this paper critiques the anthropocentric assumptions that shape modern thought and explores how ecocritical philosophy and Indigenous worldviews decentre the human. Drawing on the works of Timothy Morton, Stacy Alaimo, and Jane Bennett, and on kin-based Indigenous ontologies, it examines the vitality and agency of non-human beings. Both traditions converge on an ethical horizon that replaces domination with coexistence and gratitude for interdependence in the web of life, calling for a radical rethinking of ethics and belonging.

Keywords

Ecocriticism, Indigenous worldviews, Anthropocentrism, Posthumanism, Relational ontology, Non-human agency, Environmental ethics, Storytelling, Reciprocity, Ecological philosophy.

Conclusion

The study concludes that overcoming anthropocentrism requires re-embedding humans within ecological and moral communities. Ecocritical theory and Indigenous philosophies alike teach that coexistence, reciprocity, and respect are not abstract ideals but everyday ethical practices. By embracing relational ontologies, humanity can move from dominance toward coexistence, envisioning the Earth as an active co-author in the shared story of life.

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