Duane Elgin

Duane Elgin is an author, speaker, educator, consultant, and leading figure in sustainability and future studies. He has been prominent in the fields of consciousness research, the ecology movement, and future studies for more than three decades. Elgin pioneered the "Voluntary Simplicity" movement with his influential book of the same name, first published in 1981, which has been a transformative work in advocating for simpler, more intentional modes of living.

As an internationally recognized speaker and author, Elgin explores significant global challenges and transformative opportunities. His work delves into how significant adversities, like climate change, intersect with transformative global trends, including advances in communication technologies. For over thirty years, he has addressed themes such as humanity’s evolutionary journey, sustainable living, media accountability, and the convergence of science with global spiritual traditions in his speaking and writing.

Elgin has delivered over 300 keynote speeches and workshops to a diverse range of audiences, including business leaders, civic groups, religious organizations, and academic institutions. His presentations are known for their insightful and engaging nature, prompting audiences to consider deep and complex issues in new ways.

Elgin's literary contributions include several notable books: "The Living Universe: Where Are We? Who Are We? Where Are We Going?", "Promise Ahead: A Vision of Hope and Action for Humanity’s Future", "Awakening Earth: Exploring the Evolution of Human Culture and Consciousness", and "Voluntary Simplicity: Toward a Way of Life That is Outwardly Simple, Inwardly Rich". In collaboration with Joseph Campbell and others, he co-authored "Changing Images of Man". His works often explore the intersections of cosmology, biology, physics, and spirituality.

Previously, Elgin worked as a senior social scientist at SRI International and as a senior staff member of a joint Presidential-Congressional Commission on the American Future in the early 1970s. He co-founded three non-profit organizations focusing on media accountability and citizen empowerment.

Elgin holds an MBA from the Wharton School, an MA in economic history from the University of Pennsylvania, and an honorary Doctor of Philosophy for his work in ecological and spiritual transformation from the California Institute of Integral Studies, San Francisco. In 2006, he received the International "Goi Peace Award" for his significant contributions to global sustainability and a more spiritually-aware culture.