Environmental Ethics and Moral Principles: Key Perspectives and Theories

What are the three main ethical perspectives discussed by Palmer?

Sentience, Biocentrism, and Ecocentrism.

What is the difference between anthropocentrism and non-anthropocentrism?

Anthropocentrism prioritizes human interests, while non-anthropocentrism does not.

What are the two types of utilitarianism mentioned?

Act Utilitarianism and Rule Utilitarianism.

What does deontology focus on?

Deontology focuses on rules about actions and whether they are right or wrong, regardless of consequences.

Who are key figures associated with deontology?

Immanuel Kant and Tom Regan.

What is the principle of virtue theory?

Virtue theory emphasizes human flourishing and reconfiguring traditional virtues and vices.

What is the distinction between value monism and value pluralism?

Monism asserts there is one value, while pluralism acknowledges multiple values that all matter.

What are absolute, prima facie, and relative principles?

Absolute principles must always be followed; prima facie principles are generally binding; relative principles are nonbinding guides.

List some common moral principles discussed in the lecture.

Respect for persons, nonmaleficence, beneficence, justice, veracity, respect for nature, sufficiency, sustainability, and precaution.

What is the difference between justice and care views of ethics?

Justice focuses on rights and reasoning, while care emphasizes emotions and responsibilities.

What is the main storyline of the film 'Instinct'?

Dr. Ethan Powell, an anthropologist, is imprisoned after committing a crime, and psychiatrist Dr. Theo Caulder seeks to understand his silence and past.

What does the naturalistic fallacy state?

You cannot derive an 'ought' from an 'is'; moral conclusions require a middle ground.

What is Rolston's view on objective value in nature?

Value exists in nature without a conscious valuer; things can be valuable independently.

What is Vogel's perspective on postnaturalism?

Nature is no longer pure or untouched; we must determine the morally right way to live ourselves.

What does Schweitzer's ethic of reverence for nature entail?

It emphasizes respect and consideration for all forms of life.

According to Taylor, what is the inherent worth of a living thing?

It has worth based on its ability to benefit or harm itself and its biological development.

What does Taylor suggest about respect for nature?

We should view each life form as an irreplaceable individual and consider its perspective.

What is the concept of teleological centers of life according to Taylor?

Every living thing has its own purpose and self-interest, and humans are one among many.

What is Kawall's response regarding intrinsic value in living things?

He questions whether attributing intrinsic value to all living things is too demanding.

What is Naess's summary of the deep ecology movement?

It emphasizes principles like diversity, complexity, and egalitarianism, contrasting with the shallow ecology movement.

What does Leopold's land ethic focus on?

It emphasizes the stability, integrity, and beauty of the land, considering unethical actions that harm these qualities.

What is the significance of Callicott's view on the origin of ethics?

He rejects divine or rational origins, proposing that ethics evolved from social relationships.

What is the challenge posed by Callicott regarding the good of the whole vs. individuals?

He argues for a balance between the good of the whole and the rights of individuals, contrary to Regan's views.

What is the goal/byproduct distinction in moral considerability according to Cahen?

Purposefulness is essential for significance; understanding goals helps in moral considerations.

What does Russow say about aesthetic value in relation to species and individuals?

Aesthetic value can be significant for both species and individual organisms.