ClimateJuly 8, 2026
pastoralist
/ˈpæstərəlɪst/
Definition
In this context, someone who advocates for or idealizes a simple, rural, pre-industrial way of life.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin 'pastoralis' (relating to shepherds/pastures) combined with the suffix '-ist' for one who practices or believes in a doctrine. It evolved in English to describe those who romanticize or live according to rural, pastoral traditions.
In the news
The author uses this term to clarify that the 'soft energy path' is not merely an attempt to return to a rustic, agrarian lifestyle, but rather a modern approach to energy efficiency. It emphasizes that one can adopt these sustainable technologies without regressing to a pre-modern, pastoral existence.
The “soft energy path” at 50: America’s road half-taken
Read the full article ↗Frontier Group