Lesson 4 – The Human Person in their Environment

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and their definitions from Lesson 4 notes.

Environmental Philosophy

The discipline that studies the moral relationship between humans and the environment and its non-human contents.

Anthropocentrism

A view that emphasizes humans' central role and uses nature as a means to meet human needs.

Biocentrism

The belief that all living beings have inherent value and should be protected, not just humans.

Ecocentrism

A perspective that values ecosystems and biological communities; humans are part of a larger system and are stewards of nature.

Environmental Aesthetics

The study of aesthetics and value related to the environment and natural beauty.

Sustainable Development

Development that meets present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

World Commission on Environment and Development

The body that defined sustainable development as development that meets present needs without compromising future generations.

Environmental Integrity

The principle that human activities or economic progress should not unduly disrupt the environment or nearby communities.

Economic Efficiency

A principle aiming for minimal to zero waste in the use of natural resources.

Equity

Conserving natural resources so that future generations will still be able to use them.

Deep Ecology

Arne Naess’s view that all living beings have equal value and intrinsic worth regardless of usefulness to humans.

Social Ecology

Murray Bookchin’s view that ecological problems arise from social problems.

Ecofeminism

The view that male-centered domination of nature contributes to ecological problems, advocating equality in human relations to solve environmental issues.

Prudence

The capacity to direct and discipline one’s actions using reason; the first and most vital of the four cardinal virtues.

Frugality

The quality of being thrifty; careful management of resources, especially money.