Unit 1 - Foundations Of Environmena Systems And Societies

Question 1

Define what is an environmental value system [EVS].

Answer 1

It is a worldview or paradigm that shapes the way an individual, or group of people, perceives and evaluates environmental issues, influenced by cultural, religious, economic and socio-political contexts.

Question 2

Name what influences environmental issues.

Answer 2

• culture
• religion
• economics
• socio-political contexts

Question 3

Why can something be considered a system?

Answer 3

Because it has inputs and outputs.

Question 4

Name inputs of EVSs.

Answer 4

• family
• peers
• media
• religion
• education
• politics
• science

Question 5

Name outputs of EVSs.

Answer 5

• course of action
• perspectives
• decisions

Question 6

Define ecocentric.

Answer 6

Nature-centred

Minimum disturbance to nature.

Question 7

Define anthropocentric.

Answer 7

Human-centric

People are the manages of the earth.

Question 8

Define technocentric.

Answer 8

Technology-centric

Technology can solve environmental problems.

Question 9

Explain what is the ecocentric viewpoint.

Answer 9

Integrates social, spiritual and environmental dimensions into a holistic ideal.

Question 10

State the ecocentric beliefs.

Answer 10

• environmental conservation is central to decision-making
• humans are part of nature
• individual responsibility and accountability
• all life as inherent value
• against causing extinction of other species
• protection of habitants
• humans are NOT more important than other species

Question 11

State the viewpoint of anthropocentrism and explain how it can be done (the viewpoint).

Answer 11

Argues that humans must sustainably manage the global systems.

This could be done through taxes, environmental regulation and legislation.

Question 12

State the viewpoint of anthropocentrism.

Answer 12

Argues that humans must sustainably manage the global systems.

Question 13

State anthropocentric beliefs.

Answer 13

• the environment is a resource for humans to use as needed.
• human health and well-being as central to decision-making.
• people are environmental managers
• government regulation towards environment: taxes, legislation
• population control is as important as resource use
• humans are the most important species

Question 14

State the viewpoint of technocentrism and state what is the result of this viewpoint.

Answer 14

Argues that technological developments can provide solutions to environmental managers.

This is a result of the optimistic view of the role humans can play in improving humanity.

Question 15

State the beliefs of technocentrism.

Answer 15

• nature is a model, but can be replaced by technology when needed.
• human health and well-being are central to decision-making.
• technology can keep pace with an provide solutions to environmental problems.
• we must understand natural processes to manage and control resources.
• we can solve any problem we cause
• economic growth is good and necessary.