Question 3 Compare and contrast environmentalism and ecologism. What are the points of difference and what are the points of similarity?

Question 1

Environmentalism

Answer 1

is a broad term encompassing a range of concerns and approaches aimed at protecting the environment.
Anthropocentrism
Managerial approach (managing the problems)

Question 2

Ecologism

Answer 2

as presented in the source, is argued by Andrew Dobson to be a more specific and fundamental political ideology within this broader movement.
Biocentrism
Radical change is needed (rights of nature written into the constitution)

Question 3

Points of Difference:

Answer 3

Ecologism is strongly against anthropocentrism—the idea that humans are the most important part of the world. It sees this mindset as the main cause of environmental damage. While general environmentalism criticizes harmful human actions, ecologism goes deeper, saying we need a major shift in how we see humans and nature.

Question 4

Points of Similarity:

Answer 4

Shared goal: Both environmentalism and ecologism share the overarching goal of heightened sensitivity for and protection of the environment.

Critique of current practices: Both critique industrialization, unsustainable consumption, and practices that harm the natural world.

Concern for non-human life: Both recognize the importance and value of non-human life, although ecologism (particularly deep ecology and biocentrism) often places a stronger emphasis on the intrinsic value of all life forms.