Item 2 in Unitarian Universalist Shared Values

Interdependence

Honour the interdependent web of existence and repair damaged relationships.

Position
2
Form
Mixed formulation
Obligation
Context-dependent
Wording status
Translation
Intended audience
Member congregations of the Unitarian Universalist Association
Last reviewed
28 June 2027

Names and terminology

Canonical name: Interdependence

Original term: Interdependence

Transliteration: Interdependence

Source wording

<p>Honour the interdependent web of existence and repair damaged relationships.</p><p><em>Editorial paraphrase; consult the linked source for full wording and context.</em></p>

Translation

Literal meaning

Honour the interdependent web of existence and repair damaged relationships.

Broader interpretation

Honour the interdependent web of existence and repair damaged relationships.

Historical context

This principle belongs to Unitarian Universalist Shared Values and must be read within that framework's setting.

Practical meaning

Honour the interdependent web of existence and repair damaged relationships.

Ethical purpose

Honour the interdependent web of existence and repair damaged relationships.

Exceptions and disputes

This is a covenant among UUA congregations rather than a creed every individual must affirm identically.

Variations across schools or traditions

Unitarian Universalism has congregational polity; congregations and international bodies may retain earlier principles or other covenants.

Modern application

Honour the interdependent web of existence and repair damaged relationships. Modern application should consider consent, evidence, proportionality, power and consequences.

Criticism and difficult cases

This is a covenant among UUA congregations rather than a creed every individual must affirm identically.

Truth By Reason analysis

Honour the interdependent web of existence and repair damaged relationships. Application should preserve the ethical purpose while avoiding coercion, discrimination and preventable harm.

Ethical themes

  • Social responsibility
  • Environmental responsibility

Sources