Put simply, Gaianism is a religious philosophy that grants the living Earth (Gaia) its rightful place at the center. Humans are not the pinnacle of evolution but just a small (and not necessarily essential) part of the living Earth. In ancient times, people understood implicitly and through regularly reinforced myths and stories, that they shouldn’t mess with the living Earth. In many languages, even the name of the planet is synonymous with the Earth goddess–Hertha/Erde/Tierra/Terre being just a few examples. But living in cities and so-called advanced civilizations, where one’s engagement with nature is minimized and mediated, a person may no longer understand their place within or dependence upon Gaia. This organization provides a newsletter, events, and other resources for living The Gaian Way.

The Gaia Foundation envisages a new era in which humans are living in a respectful, just and mutually enhancing relationship with the Earth, with all her life forms and with each other.