Space Age Goddess: The Overview Effect
Gaia -
I shall sing to the earth
mother of the gods
bride of heaven
sparkling with stars
[1] Excerpt from “The Homeric Hymn to Gaia,” written down in the 5th century BC. Jules Cashford, “Gaia, Mother Goddess Earth in Ancient Greece.
Space-Age Goddess: The Overview Effect as a Feminine Archetype, Evolving Myth and Participatory Transpersonal Practice
By Dr Lila Moore
Abstract
The Overview Effect is a shift in consciousness that occurs upon seeing Earth from space. It was reported by astronauts as a state of awe involving a profound comprehension of life on Earth. The Overview Effect is discussed as an emerging feminine archetype and an evolving myth of the Earth Goddess Gaia, which commenced with the iconic photos of Earthrise and the Blue Marble. These images and the Overview Effect as described by astronauts are critically discussed in relation to their impact on religious, feminist and environmental trends and worldviews. Women astronauts' responses to the Overview Effect are firstly observed through themes depicted in sci-fi films, which is followed by a critical discussion of the Overview Effect through the female gaze of women astronauts. Secondly, the discussion centers on feminist transpersonal, psycho-spiritual, and mythic approaches to the Overview Effect. The demonstrations disclose women astronauts’ unique artistry and creative projects alongside embodied and participatory knowledge and agendas aimed at deepening humanity's relationship with the Earth as the cosmic cradle of humanity.
This is a pre-published version of the article
The published article is available to download here:
Reference: Moore, Lila (2022). The Overview Effect as a Feminine Archetype, Evolving Myth and Participatory Transpersonal Practice. S/HE: An International Journal of Goddess Studies. Volume 1 Number 2. Pp: 96-129.
