According to Clark, the fundamental elements of Tao and Zen, which are crucial in both anarchism and social ecology, are:

The emphasis on a natural, spontaneous, and harmonious way of being, for the unfolding of which external and higher interventions are not only unnecessary but, on the contrary, function as hindrances and distortions. Trust in a natural, spontaneous, and multifaceted order of things and our alignment with it, instead of the prevailing, arrogant, egocentric, utilitarian, and profit-driven intervention in every manifestation of human and non-human life.

The view that our salvation cannot come from any authority or savior rests in our own hands, and we must work diligently for it — as Hakuin, the great Zen master, said, “There are no Buddhas outside of us.” And as the author concludes in the text Zen Anarchy, “So go out, kill some Buddhas, and enjoy your day!”