History of Environmental Ethics

Question 1

Vegetarianism

Answer 1

A dietary practice of abstaining from meat, often tied to ethical, environmental, or spiritual beliefs. Historically promoted by Pythagoras (6th century BCE), Isaiah, John the Baptist, and St. Francis of Assisi, as well as movements like Jainism and Buddhism

Question 2

Akbar the Great

Answer 2

A 16th century Muslim emperor of India who established advanced zoos aimed at education rather than entertainment. He promoted respect for animals, famously posting signs at zoo entrances stating: “Meet your brothers, take them to heart, and respect them”

Question 3

Mohenjo Daro

Answer 3

An advanced city of the Harappa civilization (2500 BCE) in modern Pakistan. It housed about 5,000 people and featured a grid layout and extensive sanitation systems, showcasing early urban planning and environmental management

Question 4

St. Francis of Assisi

Answer 4

Founder of the Franciscan Order of monks, known for advocating animal rights and vegetarianism. He celebrated nature through poems like “Brother Sun” and “Sister Moon” and encouraged a harmonious relationship with the environment

Question 5

Leonardo da Vinci

Answer 5

A Renaissance polymath (1452-1519) and advocate for vegetarianism. He critiqued the killing of animals, famously stating, “The time will come when humans will look on the slaughter of beasts as they now look on the murder of men”

Question 6

Industrial Revolution

Answer 6

A period beginning in the late 17th century marked by rapid industrialization and mechanization, significantly impacting the environment. Innovations like Thomas Newcomen’s steam engine accelerated coal mining and deforestation

Question 7

Rome

Answer 7

An ancient civilization known for its innovations in public health and infrastructure, such as aqueducts and sewage systems. Despite pollution from industries like smelting and tanning, Rome set early standards for water conservation and public health

Question 8

Aqueducts

Answer 8

Engineering marvels of ancient Rome designed to transport water to cities. The system supported sanitation and public health, but was also linked to pollution issues from urban and industrial activity

Question 9

Ethical Relativism

Answer 9

The ethical practices and beliefs about the environment may vary depending on cultural or historical contexts. For example, conservation laws and practices evolved differently across civilizations like Rome, Mesopotamia, and India