Anticipation of the Idea of Sustainable Development According to Aurelio Peccei’s Concept of New Humanism

 Gro Harlem Brundtland’s consideration of “sustainable development” is not the first attempt to cover such issues. Among the concepts considered since U Thant’s report, special attention must be focused on “new humanism”, as developed by Aurelio Peccei. This concept was created during discussions about one of the most important documents constructing an awareness of our responsibility for future: “Limits to Growth”, which was published in 1972 as a report by the Club of Rome. It sets a precedent for thinking in terms of “sustainable development”. Its ethical message stresses the moral aspects associated with humankind taking a responsible attitude towards the conditions and character of existence on Planet Earth. The crux of Aurelio Peccei’s concept is the emphasis it places on the need to connect material changes with the reorientation of human sensitivity and spirituality. Peccei’s “new humanism”, at the centre of which lies the issues of humanistic reorientation of contemporary culture, cooperation and conciliation with nature, is still valid.