Document: EHM-3-28-8

Ecological Lessons From Martha Stewart.

EHMANN, W.J.*

Drake University, Des Moines, IA 50311 USA ¹

Abstract:
As we ponder ways to "advance and communicate ecology" (ESA meeting theme), I posit that we should not limit ourselves to contact with reporters and government officials, but might also develop a partnership with an equally pervasive social force: Martha Stewart. Reading over 60 "Letters from Martha" published in "Martha Stewart Living" magazine (a small part of her OmniMedia empire), it is perhaps surprising, but clearly apparent, that she has deep interest in ecological education. Her attention to "managing a household" and developing an "encyclopedia of the home" parallel our own sense of "oikos". I have mined her letters to teach undergraduate modules on biodiversity, macroevolution, sustainable agriculture, global warming, and even ecofeminism, while simultaneously showing students what ecologists might learn from her about effective communication. Though Martha falls short on some details, she proves enough of a kindred (as a teacher, naturalist, and stakeholder) that ESA members may wish to investigate her multi-faceted work and remarkable success with public audiences. Beyond classroom lessons, linking Martha's sense of pride about daily household management to our understanding of ecological systems might be a novel way to communicate ecology to millions of people we might otherwise miss.

Keywords: ecological education, Martha Stewart, public policy

This abstract is being presented at: 3:30 PM in session:
Poster Session #3: Education.