ENVIRONMENTAL ETHICS

Philosophy 206

Spring 2008, David Makinster

1. (Sterba 2) What features of the Judeo-Christian tradition may contribute to environmental recklessness and insensitivity to animal suffering? What features of the Judeo-Christian tradition may contribute to environmental conscientiousness and compassion for animal suffering? What are the implications for embracing stewardship rather than dominion? What are some benefits and pitfalls of using religious tradition as the basis for environmental policy? In general, what problems do we face if we try to resolve ethical problems by appeal to any authority, secular or scared?

2. Do the exercise(s) recommended by Starhawk in A SACRED INTENTION (pp. 38-39 of EARTH PATH). Try to respond in as honest and unadorned manner as you can.

3. “Tibet:On the Edge of Change” Reflect on the themes of this film in terms as a clash of world views, with serious consequences for the environment. Is the idea of sacred interdependence and equality of beings fundamentally different from both the Judeo-Christian ideas of dominion and stewardship, and if so (or if not) what are the implications for environmental values? Discuss sustainability vs. growth, continuity vs. progress. Can you find a middle path?

4. Define the following concepts and briefly describe (or give an example) of how the concept may apply to environmental ethics?

· The expanding circle.

· Value as a means (instrumental value, consequentialist ethics) and value as an end (intrinsic value, deontological ethics).

· The is-ought problem.

· Power-over vs. power-with.