Untitled Flashcards Set

Environmental Ethics

The study of moral principles guiding human interactions with the natural world.

Anthropocentrism

An ethical framework that views humans as the most significant entity in the universe and prioritizes human needs over the environment.

Ecocentrism

An ethical perspective that places intrinsic value on all components of the ecosystem, advocating for a nature-centered approach.

Biocentrism

An ethical viewpoint that extends moral standing to all living beings, emphasizing their right to exist independently of human benefits.

Intrinsic Value

The inherent worth of an entity, valued for its own sake rather than its usefulness to humans.

Instrumental Value

The usefulness or utility that an entity has in relation to human needs and desires.

Moral Standing

The status of an entity as deserving moral consideration based on how we ought to act towards it.

Virtue Ethics

An ethical framework that emphasizes the character and virtues of the individual making a decision.

Consequentialism

An ethical view that determines the morality of an action based on its outcomes or consequences.

Rights-Based Ethics

An ethical framework that evaluates morality based on whether actions respect the rights of individuals or entities.

Utilitarianism

A form of consequentialist ethics that seeks to maximize happiness or utility for the greatest number of people.

Stewardship

The responsibility to manage and care for natural resources sustainably and ethically.

Environmental Justice

The fair treatment and involvement of all people in environmental decision-making, ensuring that no group bears a disproportionate share of environmental harms.

Sustainability

The practice of maintaining processes or systems in a way that meets present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Holism

An approach that emphasizes the interconnectedness of various components within ecological systems.

Eco-Justice

An ethical framework that combines environmental sustainability with social justice principles.

Dualism

The belief in a separation between human beings and nature, often leading to exploitation of the natural world.

Appeal to Nature Fallacy

The erroneous argument that something is good or correct simply because it is natural.

Deontological Ethics

An ethical approach that focuses on the adherence to rules and duties in moral decision-making.

Conservation

The responsible management of natural resources to prevent degradation and ensure sustainability.

Ethical Consumerism

A type of consumer behavior that considers the ethical implications of products and services, often favoring those that are environmentally friendly.

Ecofeminism

An ethical perspective that links feminism with ecology, highlighting the connections between the oppression of women and the exploitation of nature.

Intergenerational Equity

The principle of considering the rights and needs of future generations in current decision-making.

Environmental Preservation

The protection of the environment from human exploitation, ensuring its natural state remains intact.