An environmental value system is how we see and value environmental issues. Humans can be classified into three major categories: Ecocentrism, Anthropocentrism and Technocentrism
ECOCENTRISM
This is a holistic worldview that is nature centered
and respects the rights of nature. Ecocentrics such as deep ecologists put more
value on nature than humanity and believe in biorights. (The right of
endangered species or landscape to remain undisturbed). They also wish to have
policies to reduce the human impact on the environment which would decrease the
population and consume less resources. In summary they believe that:
·
The resources are limited so we need to use them
carefully
·
The Earth is for all species including animals, plants
and humans
·
There should be minimum disturbance of natural processes
ANTHROPOCENTRISM
Anthropocentrism is a viewpoint/theory
that is people centered and gives preferences to human beings above all other
considerations. So if you believe that the Earth exists for us, humans and we can
rightfully benefit as much as we want from the environment then you are anthropocentric. You would also believe that:
- economic growth and resource use can continue as long as improvements are made in legal rights to a minimum level of environmental quality
- Compensation arrangements are made satisfactory for people who experience bad environmental and social effects
TECHNOCENTRISM
This means that values are centered on
technology and this type of view believes that it can provide solutions to all
environmental problems. Similar to anthropocentrism, it is a worldview, which
conceives that nature is present to benefit human beings.
This view includes
Cornucopians, who are people that believe through technology and our
inventiveness, we can continually improve our living standards. They see
the importance of market and economic growth, which will help manage the Earth.
They also have a belief that any issues related to economic growth, public
health and safety can be solved by scientific and technological expertise.