The Eden Project hosted The Big Lunch On Belonging on 2 February 2 to celebrate the UK publication of On Belonging: Finding Connection in an Age of Isolation, by activist, educator and founder of the Samuel Centre of Social Connectedness, Kim Samuel.
© Becky Bennett
The Big Lunch On Belonging: Eden Project celebrates the publication of Kim Samuel's new book
We are delighted to announce that OPHI Visiting Scholar, Kim Samuel's book On Belonging – Finding connection in an age of isolation was launched at the Eden Project in Cornwall today.
The UK launch event ‘The Big Lunch On Belonging’ brought together local community-based projects and individuals, academics, and interested audiences to learn about Kim’s extensive work on understanding and cultivating 'belonging' in 'an age of isolation'. The lunch provided an opportunity to build social capital and generate awareness of the concept of belonging.
On Belonging explores belonging as a missing dimension of poverty, and what it means to belong in an age of social isolation. It argues that seclusion and increasing environmental degradation have people yearning for more than just material progress, personal freedom, and political stability. The book reflects on humanity's search for a deeper connection – the longing to belong.
The Eden Project actively engages with communities to build social capital and restore nature. The eco-visitor attraction aims to promote transformations from the derelict into the desirable through strong educational and community work to turn knowledge into power.
Eden’s flagship project, 'The Big Lunch', has been a clear example of how social capital can be built around shared spaces and food, having a profound impact on communities since it started in 2009. Last year, over 17 million people participated in ‘The Big Lunch’; 68% of attendees said they personally felt less lonely, and 76% said the event made them feel they belong more in their community.
Bringing people together for ‘The Big Lunch On Belonging’ provided a meaningful platform for engaging people in conversations about the human fundamental need to belong.
Upcoming OPHI Event for the UK launch of On Belonging:
- OPHI will have the honour of hosting a conversation between Kim Samuel and +Father Erik Varden, Bishop of Trondheim, at the Sheldonian Theatre on Sunday 5th March, 4pm–5.30 pm. This special event will delve into the crucial role of community in the journey of finding belonging and understanding the self. Registration details for 5th March event.
- Kim Samuel will be participating in the Sheila Kitzinger Programme this term.