Revaluation of the Mesoamerican worldview in relation to water

Abstract

Introduction: Water scarcity is a pressing issue that is exacerbated by population growth and increasing consumption. The Western anthropocentric worldview has treated water as an exploitable resource, contributing to environmental degradation. In contrast, the Mesoamerican worldview offers an alternative perspective, viewing water as a sacred element, which could inspire a new approach to its preservation. Methodology: This study proposes an approach based on complex thinking, utilizing the process levels and analysis framework by Rolando García, to explore and characterize the elements of the Mesoamerican worldview related to water. Results: Key components of the Mesoamerican worldview are identified that could guide contemporary society toward greater environmental awareness. It is suggested that a shift from an anthropocentric to an ecocentric perspective is necessary to address the water crisis. Conclusions: The Mesoamerican worldview offers a valuable perspective for rethinking the water issue, promoting its care as a sacred resource essential for life. This perspective could inform more effective public policies for its rational and sustainable use.