Wetiko is an Algonquin word for a cannibalistic spirit or thought-form driven by greed, excess and selfish consumption. It deludes its host into believing that consuming the life force of others for self-aggrandizement or profit is a logical and morally upright way to live.

In this interview presented by the Upstream podcast, Martin Kirk – founder of The Rules – explains how this ancient concept of Wetiko is currently playing out in our modern capitalist era. In everything from our individualistic, profit-seeking impulses to the phenomenon of Donald Trump, we see how Wetiko has permeated our society. It’s about time that we recognize this dangerous characteristic and begin to transition towards a more authentic, life-affirming existence on this planet.

For more information on the Seeing Wetiko campaign, visit seeingwetiko.com

And for more interviews and documentaries from Upstream, visit ustreampodcast.org