Week 2: Notes (Page 3) Part 1

Question 1

Define “safe operating space for humanity.”

Answer 1

A safe operating space for humanity is a framework for managing natural resources within Earth’s limits to ensure long-term survival and quality of life.

Question 2

What does it mean to have “limits” in the context of environmental sustainability?

Answer 2

Limits refer to restricting resource use to what is necessary, allowing for sustainable consumption and reducing ecological impact.

Question 3

Why do people often resist the idea of limits on consumption?

Answer 3

People resist because society conditions them to value material possessions, viewing limitations as a restriction on their standard of living.

Question 4

What is a primary motivation behind the large-scale use of plant life for plastics and oils?

Answer 4

The motivation is financial, aimed at increasing profit rather than protecting the environment.

Question 5

What is a significant drawback of applying universal economic models to all populations?

A) It ensures equal rights for all.
B) It ignores cultural and economic diversity.
C) It creates more jobs.
D) It is easy to implement.

Answer 5

B

Question 6

Which of the following is not a consideration in conventional economic models?

A) Ecosystems
B) Resource extraction
C) Profit margin
D) Inflation

Answer 6

A

Question 7

True or False

Economics as a field traditionally factors in Earth’s biological processes.

Answer 7

Answer: False.
Explanation: Economics often emphasizes growth and profit, overlooking essential environmental services and biological processes necessary for sustainability.

Question 8

True or False

Enlightenment involves only positive experiences and growth.

Answer 8

Answer: False.
Explanation: Enlightenment requires self-reflection, personal growth, and sometimes disappointment, as learning from setbacks is a part of the process.

Question 9

Yes or No
Does the idea of “being god” in technology imply a responsibility to consider moral outcomes?

Answer 9

Answer: Yes.
Explanation: Mastering technological advances brings ethical responsibilities to ensure they are used for the greater good.

Question 10

Yes or No
Should all people have equal access to rights, regardless of economic models?

Answer 10

Answer: Yes.
Explanation: Applying universal models that deny some people their rights contradicts basic human equality and justice.