ESS - Topic 1.1 Perspectives

Vocabulary from topic 1.1 of ESS. Define each term, explain it, and outline at least 1 specific example.

Perspective

How a situation is viewed and understood by an individual based on personal assumptions, beliefs, and morals that influence actions.

Assumptions

An unstated/accepted belief that shapes models and assessments

Values

Principles that people feel have worth in life

Sociocultural Norms

The shared, unspoken rules, beliefs, values, and behaviors within a society that shape how people interact with their environment and use its resources.

Scientific Understanding

The evidence-based knowledge of the natural world and the interconnections between its physical, chemical, and biological components

Argument

Justification of a perspective

Values Survey

Used to determine perspectives of a specific group towards the environment

Worldview

Views shared by groups of people

Environmental Value System

Values everyone holds influenced by culture, religion, economics, education, and socio-political context

Technocentric

Assumes that technology will solve our environmental issues

Anthropocentric

Views mankind as the most important in regards to Earth

Ecocentric

Sees the natural world as being the most important in regards to Earth

Intrinsic Value

The concept that nature has inherent worth and a right to exist independent of its usefulness or benefits to humans

Environmental Movement

A global social movement composed of diverse groups/individuals dedicated to protecting the natural world

Environmental Activist

An individual/group who actively advocates for policies and practices that protect the natural environment and promote sustainable development

Environmental Disaster

A catastrophic event affecting the natural environment that results from human activity

International Agreements

A legally binding treaty between 2 or more nations to address a global environmental issue