Respect Of Nature A Theory Of Environmental Ethics Essay

Paul W. Taylor was a philosopher who became most known for his work in the field of environmental ethics. In 1996, Taylor published the book Respect for Nature: A Theory of Environmental Ethics, in which he argues for the theory of Biocentrism. Biocentrism, in Taylor’s words, is an attitude of respect for nature, whereby one attempts to make an effort to live one s life in a way that respects the welfare and inherent worth of all living creatures. This egalitarian theory is a biologically-informed, philosophical worldview about humans, nature, and the place of human civilization in the natural world. By adhering and defending it, Taylor creates a model for the equal consideration of all sentient beings based on the objective conceptual shift that the mental state of an organism’s well-being is a functioning of its â€Å"flourishing†, realizing its biological powers. Taylor’s argument for â€Å"respect of nature† as the only fitting attitude toward nature stems from a number of principles of moral consideration and intrinsic value that establish all living things as teleological centers of life. Teleological centers of life simply means that the actions of an entity’s life directs them toward some higher distinctive goal or telos; for example, a caterpillar larva metamorphosing into a butterfly. It’s Taylor’s contention that when one sees living things as teleological centers of life it is easy to see that some things, like â€Å"flourishing†, are good for that being, and some areShow MoreRelatedHuman Centered And Life Centered Systems Of Environmental Ethics1393 Words   |  6 PagesBiocentrism is the theory that within the world inherent value is extended to all living things. This means that Biocentrism, in most examples, encourages the protection of animal rights, the environment and biodiversity. 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