A spiritual organization with a hierarchical structure can convey only the consciousness of estrangement, regardless of what teachings or deep inspirations are at its root. The structure itself reinforces the idea that some people are inherently more worthy than others.

Starhawk is an American author, teacher, and eco-activist known for her teachings on earth-based spirituality. Her bestselling book The Spiral Dance is often seen as a pivotal book in the revival of Goddess worship. In her other books and teaching work, she discusses topics such as neopaganism, Wicca and witchcraft, ecofeminism, and spiritually based permaculture design.