Module 6: Human and Environmental Ethics

An ethical theory that focuses on actions that maximize overall happiness and well-being for the greatest number of people.

An ethical view that gives moral consideration to all sentient beings (those with the capacity to feel).

An ethical theory that suggests extending moral obligations beyond humans to non-human entities.

Cultures that view themselves as part of a unified family with nature, feeling accountable to their ancestors and other living beings.

Moral beliefs, values, and principles that determine what is right and wrong.

Questions about what exists and the nature of being.

In Maori culture, genealogies that connect people to their past, present, and environment; a source of knowledge and responsibility.

Study of the moral relationship between human beings and the environment, including how human decisions affect others and how to live together.

The idea that changes in the natural world and events in the human world are connected and influence each other.

The Chinese view that nature and human actions are interconnected and affect each other.

The Chinese concept of three agents (Heaven, Earth, and Man) whose cooperation maintains the well-being of the universe.

Five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, water) in Chinese thought that play a role in balancing life.

Yin-Yang concept related to Wuxing focused on achieving harmony and balance in nature and human lives.

Five fundamental elements (Earth, Air, Space, Water, Fire) in Hindu thought, crucial for understanding the human-nature relationship.

The Hindu worldview highlighting the interconnectedness between humans and the natural world, particularly described in the Vedas and Upanishads.

Hindu sacred texts that provide insights into the relationship between humans and the non-human world in the context of nature.

Describes the interdependence between nature and humanity, emphasizing the cosmic forces that sustain life.

Cosmic elements that create, nurture, and sustain life. They also absorb what was previously created after death/decay.

Emphasizes the natural order of the universe, prizing balance and interconnectedness.

The universal soul in Hinduism, encompassing all living beings and representing the essence of the universe.

Creating artificial hierarchies or disrupting the balance of nature is considered a violation of natural law in Daoism

A Sanskrit phrase meaning 'the whole world is one family,' emphasizing the interconnectedness of all beings.

Beliefs in the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth, where actions in this life affect the next.

Emphasizes the humane treatment of all living beings, including animals and plants, recognizing their intrinsic value.

A philosophical worldview that emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living things and the inherent value of nature, advocating for a radical shift in human-nature relationships.

A perspective that views the Earth as the center of the universe and associates it with feminine qualities like nurture and natural cycles.

A perspective that views the Sun as the center of the universe and associates it with masculine qualities like control and dominance.

Ethical theories that prioritize human well-being and only consider human-to-human interactions as morally relevant.

Ethical theories that extend moral consideration to all living beings, including non-human entities.

A worldview that places humans at the center of moral consideration, viewing the natural world as existing primarily to serve human needs.

A philosophical approach that links the oppression of women and the exploitation of nature, arguing both stem from a patriarchal worldview.

Individuals or entities capable of making moral decisions and taking responsibility for their actions.

Entities that have moral standing and deserve consideration in ethical decision-making, even if they cannot make moral judgments themselves.

A system of beliefs and practices that values men and masculine traits over women and feminine qualities, leading to societal dominance by men.

A perspective that acknowledges the interconnectedness of all living things and emphasizes respect for the natural world.

A shift in perspective during the 15th-17th centuries, where humans became the center of the universe, leading to a separation from nature.

The exploitation and control of the natural world for human purposes, disregarding its intrinsic value and interconnectedness.

A Hindu principle emphasizing non-violence towards all living beings, believing that they may be reincarnated ancestors or divine entities.

The Hindu perspective views nature as a living entity worthy of respect, reverence, and recognition as sacred and divine.

A concept in Islam emphasizing human responsibility as stewards of God's creation.

An Islamic principle stating that every natural entity has a specific role and place in the cosmos, ordained by God.

A practice in Islamic tradition promoting the importance of protecting pasture lands and sanctuaries, supporting ecological balance.

An ethical approach advocating for human achievements in areas like knowledge and culture to improve the world.

Evaluating actions based on moral character, emphasizing good intentions and inner qualities.

An ethical approach that focuses on following universal principles and inherent values, regardless of consequences.