On Nature
In acknowledgement of Earth Day, join us for a discussion on the value of Nature!
Many philosophers and environmental activists have argued that beyond the instrumental value it has for human flourishing, the natural world has intrinsic value—it is worth protecting for its own sake. On the other side, some take a strictly anthropocentric view—the environment only has value to the degree it benefits humans. There are in-between positions as well. Some argue that while the environment may not have intrinsic value, animals—or at least some of them—have moral standing and the environment must be protected for their sake.
Key Questions
Does the environment (or parts of it) have intrinsic/moral value? What are our obligations to the natural world?
Is there something to the idea of relational values (versus something being valuable intrinsically vs instrumentally)?
Why does experiencing nature feel transcendent/spiritual?
Readings
* The readings are optional but if you complete them you get to pick out a shiny sticker!
Should we protect nature for its own sake? For its economic value? Because it makes us happy? Yes
Plural valuation of nature matters for environmental sustainability and justice
Nature by Ralph Waldo Emerson (Just chapter one)