Intro to Enviornmental Science

environmental science

The study of interactions between the natural world and human activities, focusing on ecological principles, conservation, and sustainability. scientific method

scientific method

A systematic approach for investigating phenomena, acquiring new knowledge, or correcting and integrating previous knowledge through observation, experimentation, and analysis.

hypothesis

A proposed explanation for a phenomenon, which can be tested through experimentation and observation.

prediction

A statement predicting the outcome of a particular experiment or observation based on a hypothesis, which can be tested to confirm or refute its validity.

scientific theory

A well-substantiated explanation or principle that has been tested and confirmed through extensive observation and experimentation.

hypothesis testing

The process of conducting experiments to determine the validity of a hypothesis by analyzing the results to see if they support or contradict the proposed explanation.

observational study

A research method that involves observing subjects in their natural environment without manipulation or intervention, allowing for the collection of data about behaviors and outcomes.

control group

group of test subjects that do not receive experimental treatment

experiment group

group of test subjects that do receive experimental treatment

scientific law

describe how elements of nature will behave in certain conditions, but doesn’t explain why

hypothesis testing

 testing whether your explanation for something is supported by evidence

observational study

observe/collect data without changing anything, simply observe

scientific knowledge

tested with formal research

traditional knowledge

learned through generations of experience

sustainability

sociopolitical, scientific, cultural challenges of living within the means of the earth without impairing its function

anthropocentric

human centered (nature is valued mainly because of how it benefits humans)

anthropogenic

caused by humans 

biocentric

life centered (all living things have value, not just humans)

tragedy of the commons

when a shared resource gets overused because individuals act in their own self interest

frontier ethic

assumes that the earth has an unlimited amount of resources

sustainable ethic

assumption that earth’s resources are not unlimited and humans must use/conserve resources so it’s available for future

land ethic

humans have a moral obligation to care for the land and living things in it and not just use it for own benefit

utilitarian conservation

protect nature so humans can use it over time

preservation ethic

protect nature from human use, because nature has a value of its own

environmental justice

making sure all people are treated fairly when it comes to environmental benefits and harm

indigenous people

those who have historical ties to pre-invasion/colonial societies

land ethics guy

aldo leopold

preservation ethics guy

john muir

utilitarian conservation guy

gifford pinchot

judicial role in environmental policies

makes the policies

executive role in environmental policies

enforces the policies

judicial role in environmental policies

interprets the policies

state/local gov role in environmental policies

controls policies in specific area they are in charge of