Religious Views: Western Traditions (Christianity and Islam)

Question 1

Genesis 1:28

Answer 1

This biblical verse is central to the Christian environmental debate. Some interpret “dominion” as human rule over nature (exploitation), while others see it as stewardship, meaning humans are caretakers of God’s creation

Question 2

Anthropocentric

Answer 2

A worldview that places humans at the center of moral and philosophical considerations. In environmental ethics, anthropocentrism often leads to the prioritization of human needs over ecological well-being, justifying resource exploitation and environmental degradation

Question 3

Environmental Justice

Answer 3

A movement that addresses the intersection of social justice and environmental protection. It argues that marginalized communities–particularly low-income groups and people of color–suffer the most from pollution, climate change, and environmental destruction. Christian eco-justice movements advocate for protecting both people and the planet

Question 4

Evangelical Environmentalism

Answer 4

A growing movement within Christian evangelical circles that supports environmental responsibility as part of faith. Evangelical environmentalists emphasize stewardship over dominion, arguing that caring for the earth is a moral and religious duty. This perspective challenges climate denial and anti-environmentalist views often associated with evangelical communities

Question 5

Stewardship vs Dominion

Answer 5

Stewardship is the belief that humans are caretakers of the Earth, responsible for protecting and maintaining God’s creation. This aligns with sustainability and environmental conservation. Dominion is often interpreted as human authority over nature, sometimes used to justify exploitation of natural resources. Some argue this interpretation has contributed to environmental degradation. This debate between these interpretations shapes Chrisitan perspectives on environmental responsibility

Question 6

Green Muslims

Answer 6

A movement within the Islamic environmentalism that advocates for sustainability, conservation, and ethical treatment of nature. Green Muslims emphasize that Islam teaches humans are caretakers (khalifah) of the Earth, and that protecting nature is a form of worship. The movement promotes eco-friendly lifestyles, renewable energy, and climate action as part of faith