A cross-sectional mixed-methods study was conducted to examine the effectiveness of the Purna Health Management System (PHMS) in supporting the holistic health and wellness of people implementing it. Study participants were dedicated spiritual seekers, and followers Sri Sri Sri Svami Purna Maharaj (Svamiji), the founder of the PHMS. Participants were recruited via a sign-up sheet at three consecutive events held by Svamiji in the Poconos of Pennsylvania,...

This exploratory study investigated the effect of a twenty-one day outdoor orientation program (OOP) on participants' relationships with the natural world, as understood via the lens of biophilia. The primary research question was "Does the Prescott College New Student Orientation have an effect on participants' biophilic profiles, as measured by the Kellert-Shorb Biophilic Values Indicator (KSBVI)?" Biophilic profiles were calculated pre and post...

Amidst the prevalent discourse advocating for a shift toward a more just and sustainable form of capitalism, there is a growing acknowledgment that business education, perhaps more than business practices themselves, inadvertently perpetuates approaches to wealth creation that erode ecological systems and societal relationships. Recognizing the inherent lack of value-neutrality in business education, this study explores the implicit worldviews embedded...

In the United States public discourse, climate change is often framed as a polarized and intractable issue. The purpose of this dissertation was to explore deliberation about climate action, and to evaluate whether effective responses to climate change can be facilitated through new structures and processes that enable and encourage dialogue on the subject of how to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Working with sustainability leaders at the University...