Philo 126 (Environmental Philosophy)

THESES
Final Semestral Exam
SY 2023-2024

1. Intrinsic Value of Nature: The natural environment possesses intrinsic value

independent of its utility to humans, emphasizing the importance of preserving
ecosystems and biodiversity for their own sake.
All things in nature possess intrinsic value on the fact that first, they possess
existence. Existence is considered as good and beautiful metaphysically since
existence is desirable rather than non-existence.
- Metaphysics: Nature has inherent worth as it exists independently of human
perception or use, reflecting a deeper, intrinsic reality.
- Ethics: Intrinsic value arises from an ethical standpoint that acknowledges
the inherent worth of all living entities, promoting a moral duty to respect
and preserve the natural world.
- Biodiversity: Recognizing intrinsic value supports the idea that each species
contributes to the richness and complexity of ecosystems, fostering ethical
responsibility for their preservation.
- Interconnectedness: Metaphysically, nature's interconnectedness emphasizes
that the value of one component extends to the entire system, reinforcing the
importance of preserving ecological balance.
2. Anthropocentricism Critique: Environmental philosophy challenges
anthropocentricism, arguing for a shift from a human-centered worldview to an
ecocentric perspective that values the well-being of the entire ecosystem.
- **Biblical Stewardship:** The Bible suggests humans are stewards of the
Earth, emphasizing responsibility for the entire creation rather than focusing
solely on human interests.
- **Ethical Consideration:** An ecocentric perspective aligns with ethical
principles that prioritize the intrinsic value of all life, challenging the
anthropocentric notion that values nature only for its utility to humans.
- **Interconnected Creation:** Biblical teachings imply an interconnected
creation where the well-being of the ecosystem is intertwined with human
well-being, encouraging a shift from human-centric to ecocentric values.
- **Holistic Ethics:** An ecocentric approach promotes a holistic ethical
framework that extends moral consideration beyond human interests,
recognizing the inherent value of the entire ecosystem.
3. Deep Ecology: Deep ecology proposes that all living beings have equal intrinsic
value, advocating for a profound transformation in human consciousness and
behavior to promote ecological sustainability.
Equal Intrinsic Value: Deep ecology asserts that all living beings possess
intrinsic value, irrespective of their utility to humans, fostering an ethos of
equality in the inherent worth of all life.
Transformation in Consciousness: It calls for a profound shift in human
consciousness, encouraging a reevaluation of values and beliefs to recognize
the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of ecological
sustainability.
 Biocentric Perspective: Deep ecology promotes a biocentric perspective,
placing emphasis on the entire web of life rather than prioritizing human-
centric interests.
List of eight prinicples of deep ecology:
1. IntrinsicValue – must be Important even without utility
2. Diversity – embodiement of the first principle
3. Vital Needs – use environment to satisfy vital needs, not greeds
4. Population – human population must decrease to increase non-human
population
5. Human Interference – too much human interference is destroying earth
6. Policy Change – change laws for the benfit of all
7. Quality of Life – Be contended
8. Obligation of Action – Walk the talk

4. Ecological Interconnectedness: The philosophy of environmental

interconnectedness asserts that all elements of nature are interconnected,
highlighting the significance of understanding and preserving these intricate
relationships for the health of the planet.

Biodiversity Support: Interconnectedness sustains biodiversity by creating

complex relationships where each species plays a unique role in the
ecosystem.
Nutrient Cycling: Elements like water, nutrients, and energy flow through
ecosystems, ensuring balance and supporting life through interconnected
processes.
Pollination and Reproduction: Many plants depend on interconnected
relationships with pollinators for reproduction, influencing the health of plant
and animal populations.
Climate Regulation: Ecosystems contribute to climate regulation through
interconnected processes like carbon sequestration, affecting global climate
patterns.
Resilience to Change: Interconnected systems are more resilient to
disturbances. Diversity in species and relationships enhances the ability to
adapt to environmental changes.

Effects of Disturbance or Preservation:

Disturbance:
Ecosystem Collapse: Disrupting interconnectedness can lead to cascading
effects, potentially causing the collapse of ecosystems.
Loss of Biodiversity: Disruption may result in the decline or extinction of
certain species, affecting the overall biodiversity of the ecosystem.
Unpredictable Consequences: Disturbances can trigger unpredictable
consequences, impacting the health and functioning of the entire ecological
system.

Not Disturbed (Preservation):

Stability: Preserving interconnected relationships promotes ecosystem
stability, reducing the risk of sudden changes or collapses.
 Sustainable Resource Use: Intact ecosystems can support sustainable resource
use, ensuring that resources are replenished and available for future
generations.
Enhanced Adaptation: Interconnected systems are better equipped to adapt
to environmental changes, maintaining their functions over time.

5. Environmental Ethics and Responsibilities: Humans have ethical responsibilities

toward the environment, including stewardship, conservation, and sustainable
resource use, grounded in the recognition of the intrinsic value of nature.
- **Intrinsic Value:** Acknowledges the intrinsic value of nature, recognizing
that ecosystems and species have worth beyond their utility to humans.
- **Interconnectedness:** Understands that human well-being is intricately
connected to the health of the environment, emphasizing the importance of
responsible stewardship.
- **Sustainability:** Promotes the long-term health of the planet by
advocating for sustainable practices that do not deplete natural resources or
harm ecosystems.
- **Biodiversity Conservation:** Recognizes the importance of preserving
biodiversity to maintain ecological balance and resilience in the face of
environmental changes.

**How to Practice Environmental Ethics and Responsibilities:**

- **Stewardship:** Actively care for and manage the environment
responsibly, considering the impact of individual and collective actions on
ecosystems.
- **Conservation Practices:** Engage in conservation efforts such as habitat
restoration, pollution reduction, and responsible resource consumption.
- **Sustainable Living:** Adopt sustainable practices in daily life, including
energy efficiency, waste reduction, and supporting eco-friendly products and
initiatives.
- **Environmental Education:** Promote awareness and understanding of
environmental issues to encourage informed decision-making and responsible
behavior.

**Insights from "Laudato Si" and "Laudate Deum" by Pope Francis:**

- **Integral Ecology:** Pope Francis emphasizes the concept of integral
ecology, recognizing the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and
economic issues.
- **Caretakers of Creation:** Stresses the role of humans as caretakers of
creation, with a moral responsibility to protect the environment for present
and future generations.
- **Ecological Conversion:** Calls for an ecological conversion, a change in
lifestyle and values that reflects a deeper appreciation for the environment
and a commitment to sustainable living.
- **Justice and Solidarity:** Highlights the ethical dimension of
environmental issues, advocating for justice and solidarity in addressing the
impact of environmental degradation on vulnerable communities.
 - **Global Responsibility:** Emphasizes the global dimension of
environmental challenges, calling for collaborative efforts and shared
responsibility in caring for the Earth.

6. Environmental Justice: Environmental philosophy addresses issues of

environmental justice, arguing that all individuals, irrespective of socio-economic
status or location, have the right to live in a healthy environment and share the
benefits of natural resources equitably.
**From Catholic Social Doctrine and the Bible:**
- **Common Good:** Catholic social doctrine underscores the common good,
asserting that the benefits of the environment should be accessible to all,
reflecting a shared responsibility for the well-being of the community.
- **Stewardship:** The Bible suggests stewardship of the Earth, emphasizing
the moral duty to protect and preserve the environment for the benefit of
present and future generations.
- **Justice and Solidarity:** Catholic teachings emphasize the principles of
justice and solidarity, calling for equitable distribution of environmental
resources and a commitment to addressing environmental challenges that
affect vulnerable communities.

**From "Laudato Si" by Pope Francis:**

- **Option for the Poor:** Pope Francis advocates for an option for the poor,
recognizing that environmental degradation disproportionately affects the
less privileged and calling for efforts to alleviate their suffering.
- **Ecological Debt:** Addresses the concept of ecological debt,
acknowledging historical and social responsibilities in environmental matters,
particularly by those with more resources.
**Principles of Environmental Justice (1991 First National People of Color
Leadership Summit):**
- **Environmental Justice:** All individuals have the right to a safe, healthy,
and sustainable environment, free from discrimination
- **Equity:** Environmental benefits and burdens should be distributed
fairly and without discrimination, ensuring equal protection for all.
- **Participation:** All people, regardless of race or socio-economic status,
should have meaningful and inclusive participation in environmental
decision-making processes.
- **Solidarity:** Environmental justice requires cooperation and solidarity
among diverse communities, fostering collective action to address
environmental challenges.
- **Sustainable Communities:** The goal is to create and maintain
environmentally sustainable and socially just communities.
- **Respect for Indigenous Rights:** Recognizes the importance of respecting
and protecting the rights of indigenous peoples, including their rights to land,
culture, and self-determination.
- **Precautionary Principle:** Advocates for taking precautionary measures
to prevent harm to the environment and public health, especially when
scientific evidence is uncertain.
 - **Accountability:** Calls for accountability and responsibility from
individuals, corporations, and governments for environmental practices that
impact marginalized communities.

7. Technological Optimism vs. Environmental Prudence: This thesis explores the

tension between technological optimism and environmental prudence, debating
whether technology can genuinely solve environmental challenges or if a more
cautious and holistic approach is necessary.
**Catholic Social Teachings:**
- **Balanced Approach:** Catholic social teachings encourage a balanced
approach, recognizing the potential benefits of technology while emphasizing
the importance of ethical considerations and the preservation of the
environment.
- **Human Dignity:** The use of technology should respect human dignity,
considering the impact on individuals and communities, and ensuring that
technological advancements contribute to the common good.

**From "Laudate Deum":**

- **Ethical Technological Development:** Encourages technological
development guided by ethical principles, taking into account the well-being
of the environment and humanity.

**From "Laudato Si" by Pope Francis:**

- **Caution in Technological Optimism:** Expresses caution about an overly
optimistic reliance on technology to solve environmental challenges, stressing
the need for prudence and a comprehensive understanding of ecological
systems.
- **Integral Ecology:** Pope Francis advocates for an integral ecology that
recognizes the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic
issues, suggesting a holistic approach beyond technological solutions.
- **Ecological Education:** Calls for ecological education to accompany
technological advancements, fostering a deeper awareness of the
environmental impact and ethical responsibilities associated with technology.
- **Dialogue and Collaboration:** Encourages dialogue and collaboration
between the scientific and religious communities, emphasizing the shared
responsibility to address environmental issues with both technological
innovation and ethical considerations.
8. Climate Change and Global Responsibilities: Environmental philosophy contends
that there exists a global ethical responsibility to address climate change
collaboratively, acknowledging the shared impact of human activities on the
planet’s climate.

Global Interconnectedness: Climate ethics recognizes the interconnectedness

of the global community, asserting that the consequences of climate change
are shared by all, irrespective of geographical location or socioeconomic
status.
 Responsibility for Emissions: Philosophers like Henry Shue and John Broome
argue that those who have historically emitted the most greenhouse gases
bear a significant ethical responsibility for addressing climate change.

Duty to Mitigate: Climate ethics posits a moral duty for individuals, nations,
and corporations to actively mitigate climate change through reduced
emissions, sustainable practices, and collaborative international efforts.

“Bali Principle”
1. Affordable clean energy – all people have a right to affordable and
sustainable energy.
2. Beneficiaries pay – the beneficiaries of past GHG emissions (e.g.,
industrialized nations and elites in developing nations) should bear the
burden of responsibility for mitigation and adaptation – also termed
historical responsibility.
3. Common but differentiated responsibility – all people bear a common
responsibility to halt climate change, but the greatest burden falls to those
with the ability to pay and to those who benefit most from greenhouse-gas-
producing activities.
4. Compensatory equity – powerless, disadvantaged, and socio-economically
vulnerable people who are worst affected by climate change should be
compensated by those who have benefitted.
5. Meeting basic needs –people in the developing world must be allowed to
generate a certain level of emissions to meet their basic requirements for
shelter, food, transport, etc.

9. Environmental Education: Recognizing the role of education in shaping

environmental attitudes, this thesis emphasizes the importance of incorporating
environmental philosophy into educational curricula to cultivate a sense of
ecological responsibility from an early age.

Based on the thesis, here are some concise answers:

1. What is the role of education in environmental attitudes? Education plays a

crucial role in shaping environmental attitudes. It helps individuals understand
the importance of the environment and our role in preserving it.
2. Why is it important to incorporate environmental philosophy into
educational curricula? Incorporating environmental philosophy into
educational curricula is important because it helps cultivate a sense of
ecological responsibility from an early age. This can lead to more
environmentally conscious behaviors in adulthood.
3. What is the expected outcome of incorporating environmental philosophy
into education from an early age? The expected outcome is the cultivation of
a sense of ecological responsibility. This means that individuals will be more
likely to engage in behaviors that protect and preserve the environment.
10. Wilderness and Human Interaction: Examining the concept of wilderness, this
thesis considers the role of human interaction with untouched environments,
questioning whether preservation or controlled intervention is more conducive to
environmental health and ethical responsibility.
**Wilderness:**
- **Definition:** Wilderness refers to natural areas that remain largely
unaffected by human activities, often characterized by undisturbed
ecosystems, minimal human development, and a sense of pristine, untouched
nature.

**Human Interconnectedness in Environmental Philosophy:**

- **Definition:** Human interconnectedness in environmental philosophy
underscores the intrinsic relationship between humans and the natural world.
It emphasizes that human well-being is intricately linked to the health of the
environment, highlighting the mutual impact of human actions on ecosystems
and vice versa. This concept promotes a holistic understanding that
recognizes the interdependence of all living entities within the ecological web.

Balanced Approach: Suggest that a balanced approach is necessary,

recognizing the intrinsic value of untouched wilderness while acknowledging
that responsible and controlled human intervention may be essential for
environmental health.

Ethical Responsibility: Emphasize the ethical responsibility to preserve the

integrity of ecosystems, advocating for interventions guided by ethical
considerations and a commitment to long-term environmental well-being.

Scientific Management: Highlight that controlled interventions, based on

scientific management and sustainability principles, can contribute positively
to ecological health without compromising the essence of wilderness.

Stewardship: Stress the concept of human stewardship over nature,

emphasizing that responsible interaction involves both preservation and
intervention, guided by a sense of care and respect for the environment.

Example: **Scenario: Balancing Wilderness and Human Interconnectedness

in the Philippines**
**Location:** A biodiverse forest area in the Philippines, perhaps within a
protected natural park.
**Balanced Approach:**
1. **Preservation Zones:** Identify specific areas within the forest, such as
critical habitats or biodiversity hotspots, as preservation zones. Restrict
human activities in these zones to ensure the preservation of unique flora and
fauna.
2. **Sustainable Eco-Tourism:** Develop eco-tourism initiatives that adhere
to sustainable practices. Implement well-maintained trails, guided tours led
by local experts, and eco-friendly accommodations. This allows visitors to
appreciate the natural beauty without causing harm.
 3. **Indigenous Wisdom:** Incorporate indigenous knowledge and practices
into the management strategy. Engage with local communities and integrate
their traditional ecological knowledge, respecting their cultural ties to the
land.
4. **Community-Based Conservation:** Involve local communities in
conservation efforts by establishing community-based conservation
programs. This can include training local residents as eco-guides, providing
eco-friendly livelihood opportunities, and fostering a sense of shared
responsibility
5. **Environmental Education:** Conduct educational programs for schools,
local communities, and tourists. Raise awareness about the unique
biodiversity of the Philippine forests, emphasizing the role of each individual
in preserving the environment.

11. Environmental Pragmatism: Environmental philosophy considers pragmatic

approaches to environmental issues, exploring the intersection of philosophy and
practical solutions to address ecological challenges and promote sustainability.

1. **Integration of Philosophy and Action:** Environmental pragmatism

bridges the gap between theoretical environmental philosophy and actionable
solutions, ensuring that philosophical principles translate into tangible
outcomes.
2. **Practical Problem-Solving:** This perspective prioritizes practical
problem-solving, advocating for strategies that are feasible, implementable,
and yield measurable results in the context of environmental preservation and
sustainability.
3. **Flexibility and Adaptability:** Environmental pragmatism
acknowledges the dynamic nature of environmental challenges, emphasizing
the importance of flexible, adaptable approaches that respond to evolving
ecological issues.
4. **Balancing Idealism and Realism:** While rooted in philosophical ideals,
environmental pragmatism recognizes the necessity of balancing idealistic
aspirations with the pragmatic realities of resource constraints, policy
implementation, and societal behavior.
Anthony Weston. PRINCIPLES OF ENVIRONMENTAL PRAGMATISM
1. Emphasis on experience as the source of value.
2. Decreasing importance of theoretical debates.
3. Placing of practical issues of policy consensus first.
4. The rightness of an action is largely system dependent.
5. Commitment to moral pluralism.
6. Denial that instrumental value and intrinsic value are ever mutually exclusive.
7. Purposive activity in thought, justifiable by workability.

Example Scenarios:

Community-Based Waste Management:

Philosophical Foundation: Emphasize the ethical responsibility to protect the
environment.
 Pragmatic Action: Implement community-based waste management
programs, focusing on waste reduction, recycling, and proper disposal.
Involve local residents in waste collection and segregation initiatives.

Economic Incentives:
Philosophical Foundation: Integrate sustainability into economic practices for
the well-being of the community.
Pragmatic Action: Introduce economic incentives for recycling efforts,
providing income opportunities for community members engaged in plastic
collection and recycling. This pragmatic approach aligns economic interests
with environmental sustainability.

Educational Campaigns:
Philosophical Foundation: Promote awareness and education about the
intrinsic value of marine ecosystems.
Pragmatic Action: Conduct pragmatic educational campaigns within the
community to raise awareness about the impacts of plastic pollution. Include
practical tips for reducing plastic usage in daily life.

Government Collaboration:
Philosophical Foundation: Advocate for shared responsibility and
collaboration for environmental preservation.
Pragmatic Action: Engage local government bodies and policymakers to
support and enforce waste management regulations. Establish partnerships
with businesses for sustainable packaging practices.
12. Intergenerational Ethics: Environmental philosophy considers the ethical
obligations of current generations toward future generations, highlighting the
importance of sustainable practices to preserve a healthy and viable environment
for those yet to come.

Intergenerational ethics within environmental philosophy underscores the

moral responsibility of the present generation to safeguard the environment
for the well-being of future generations.

Renewable Energy Transition:

Current Action: Invest in and transition to renewable energy sources,
reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Future Impact: This mitigates climate change, ensuring a cleaner and more
sustainable energy future for upcoming generations.

Afforestation and Reforestation:

Current Action: Implement large-scale afforestation and reforestation
projects to restore ecosystems.
Future Impact: This helps combat deforestation, preserving biodiversity and
providing a healthier environment for future generations.

Circular Economy Practices:

Current Action: Embrace a circular economy model, promoting recycling,
reducing waste, and reusing resources.
 Future Impact: This minimizes resource depletion, ensuring that essential
resources are available for the well-being of future generations.

Conservation of Water Resources:

Current Action: Adopt water conservation measures and sustainable water
management practices.
Future Impact: Ensures an adequate and clean water supply for future
generations, addressing a critical aspect of environmental sustainability.

Environmental Education Programs:

Current Action: Implement comprehensive environmental education
programs.
Future Impact: Equips future generations with the knowledge and values
needed to make informed and sustainable decisions, fostering a culture of
environmental responsibility.

Protection of Natural Habitats:

Current Action: Establish and enforce policies to protect natural habitats and
critical ecosystems.
Future Impact: Preserves biodiversity, ensuring that future generations can
enjoy the benefits of intact and resilient ecosystems.

Climate Resilience Planning:

Current Action: Develop and implement climate resilience strategies and
policies.
Future Impact: Helps mitigate the adverse effects of climate change,
safeguarding the well-being of future generations in the face of environmental
challenges.
FINAL NOTE!!!
PLEASE READ LAUDATO SI, LAUDATE DEUM, CATOLIC SOCIAL
DOCTRINE AND MGA NEWS. ALSO READ THE REPORTS OF OUR
CLASSMATES IN CASE FOR OBJECTIVITY.

Semestral Final Exam

Subject: Philosophy 126 – Environmental Philosophy
Date/Time: 18 December 2023; 9 AM onwards
Venue: Office of the Rector

Guidelines:
Criteria for Grading (as a group): 100 points
1. Content (Depth, Substance, Thoroughness, Insight, Originality):20
2. Sources/Citation: 10
3. Coherence and Organization: 20
4. Speaking skills: 15
5. Preparedness/Eye contact: 8
6. Ability to answer questions: 15
7. Length of Presentation: 6