Environmental Ethics Flashcards
Some philosophers argue that “ought” does not logically follow from “is”. What do they mean? Use an
example to explain it
This means that just because something is a certain way (“is”), it doesn’t automatically mean it should be that way “ought” statement).
Example- It is raining outside- Just because it is raining outside doesn’t mean you ought to take an umbrella.
What is the difference between Intrinsic values and instrumental values? Use an example to explain your
answer
Intrinsic values- refer to the inherent worth of something
Instrumental values - refer to the value something has because of its usefulness or usefulness to achieve a goal.
For example- The tree has intrinsic value because it is part of the natural environment and contributes to the ecosystem. : The tree also has instrumental value because humans can use it for various purposes, such as providing shade, producing oxygen, or supplying wood for building furniture.
What does it mean to say something is “morally considerable”?
Something is morally considerable when it matters morally and It is worthy of moral attention or consideration.
What is the difference between objective and subjective values? Use an example to explain your answer.
Objective values- are based on external standards or criteria that apply universally
subjective values- are based on personal opinions, feelings, or preferences that vary from person to person.
Example- The value of human life is often considered an objective value. The value of a particular piece of artwork is often considered a subjective value.
Some argue that we can only assign instrumental and subjective values to the natural world. Please identify
at least three types of instrumental values they assign to the natural world.
When they argue this they mean that humans decide to use nature for other things and their own benefits which is an instrumental value, and appreciate nature for what it’s worth which is a subjective value. For example, we view nature as something for money, food, water, and entertainment. We view nature as something to fulfill our needs rather than valuing nature for what it is worth and its own sake.
3 instrumental values that they assign to the natural world are recreational values, educational values, and personal values.
Ronald Dworkin argues that humans are sacred and inviolable, that is, they have intrinsic value. What does
he mean by this? Explain it.
He means that every individual has worth and dignity just by simply being human, and this worth should be respected and protected.
What is “anthropocentrism”? (Please make sure to explain how this approach determines “moral
considerability.
Anthro- is the belief that all humans are the most important beings in the world and are directly morally considerable. An approach is how something affects human interests when determining its moral significance.
As an objection to the “genotype criterion” for biological group membership, we discussed the problem of
“indeterminacy” or “arbitrariness” (the case of gradual transformation of a chimpanzee to a human being.)
Please explain the objection.
if we rely solely on genetic differences to define species membership, it becomes unclear where to draw the line between different species, especially when considering gradual changes over time.
As an objection to the “genotype criterion” for biological group membership, we discussed the problem of
the “super-chimp” (or as we called it, “Professor Chimp ‘’) case. Please explain the objection.
The problem with the genotype criterion is that it assumes all individuals within a species share the same genetic makeup and traits.
Some use “interbreeding criterion” as a criterion for biological group membership. (a) Explain the criterion.
(b) Discuss one major objection to this criterion
individuals belong to the same biological group if they can mate and produce viable offspring that can also reproduce.
One major objection is loss to genetic diversity.
What is “ratiocentrism”? What concept of “reason” is associated with ratiocentrism? Explain it
It is that adult humans deserve moral consideration because they are rational. The concept is classical logic and empirical inquiry.
Why do some philosophers think that infants and severely mentally disabled undermine ratiocentrism?
Explain it
Because they do not have the same thought process and cognitive abilities as ratiocentric anthropocentrism.
The objection is that it excludes certain people from moral consideration.
What is the “last person” objection against ratiocentrism?
The “last person” objection is that even though humans are the most important things, we still should not prioritize our interests above all else. We need to think about the well-being of all creatures.
What is the “inadequacy objection” against anthropocentrism?
Any argument against an environmental ethic that it will not provide an adequate for environmentally sustainable practices, policies, and lifestyles.
What is the principle of “species impartiality”
That all living beings have the same inherent worth, and must be treated as such.
What is “Enlightened Anthropocentrism”
A viewpoint that says humans are really important, but we also need to consider the well-being of other living things and the environment.
