Environmental ethics: atomistic abstraction or holistic affection

Journal Article · · Environ. Ethics; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.5840/enviroethics19791434· OSTI ID:5355245

Oelhaf, R C

Environmental policy initiatives are suggested that could bring the relationship of man and nature into a better perspective than the present value system based on economics. Efforts to achieve an equitable allocation of natural resources by redistributing income overlook the rights of other life forms and are biased toward the present generation. Evolving technology can allow consumption to grow and still increase well-being without requiring generational allocations if investments are made which equalize the value of consumable goods with that of the resources used. The problem is finding an independent way to evaluate other life forms and overcome the historical exploitation, not only of land, but of man himself. A new perspective based on the equality of life forms could develop by reestablishing a personal contact between each individual and the land. One way would be to assign 3 acres of public land to each person to cherish and protect. 39 references. (DCK)

• Research Organization: Kimberton Farms School, PA
• OSTI ID: 5355245
• Journal Information: Environ. Ethics; (United States), Journal Name: Environ. Ethics; (United States) Vol. 1:4; ISSN ENETD
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
290300* -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Environment
Health
& Safety
290400 -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Energy Resources
ALLOCATIONS
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
ETHICS
GOVERNMENT POLICIES
INSTITUTIONAL FACTORS
PUBLIC LANDS
RESOURCE CONSERVATION
SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS