Extra's Flashcards
what is the environment?
All biotic and abiotic factors (external factors) that act on an organism, population, or ecological community
Biotic factors: organisms, their food, and their interactions (alive)
Abiotic factors: sunlight, soil, air, water, climate, and pollution (not alive)
what are environmental issues determined by?
Prevailing social attitudes and dominant groups
Cultural practices, traditions, values and education
what is a paradigm/ shift
Paradigm - pattern or model or concept of how something is viewed
Paradigm shift – how a set of theories or hegemonic set of ideas gives way to another over time
what are the two basic world views?
1. Individual-centred or Atomistic Human centred (Anthropocentric) Life centred (Biocentric) 2. Earth Centred or Holistic Ecosystem or ecosphere centred (Ecocentric)
what is the anthropocentric world view?
Planetary worldview, human-centred, Western industrial/post-industrial
what are the 4 themes of the anthropocentric world view?
- Dualism - Humans are separate from nature
- Hierarchy - Humans are most important
- Utility - Nature as a resource for humans; intrinsic vs. instrumental value
- Stewardship - Humans in charge of taking care of nature for other species and generations
what is the assumption of the anthropocentric world view?
Economic growth is good and unlimited
Healthy environment depends on healthy economy