by Gary P. Hampson
ABSTRACT
“Deep” metaphors can be seen to underlie “surface” reality. By becoming conscious of these, we are in a better position to see what possible futures they point to. We are also able to choose alternative metaphors that align more readily with our preferred futures. “Human as machine” and “human as ape” are metaphors that can be seen to uphold the dominant Western worldview. It is proposed here that through embracing a different metaphor – “human as dolphin” – a culturally transformative process would be facilitated.