Question

Which of the following Environmental Ethics includes preservation of wild plants and animals, control of the human population and simple living?

• A. Social Ecology
• B. Shallow Ecology
• C. Deep Ecology
• D. Green Ecology

Hint:

Remember the key distinction: Deep Ecology is biocentric (life-centered), believing nature has value in itself. Shallow Ecology is anthropocentric (human-centered), valuing nature for its usefulness to humans.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify the specific school of environmental ethics that is defined by a set of core principles: intrinsic value of nature, concern over human population, and emphasis on a simpler lifestyle.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Deep Ecology is an environmental philosophy that promotes the inherent worth of all living beings, regardless of their instrumental utility to human needs. Its key tenets, as formulated by Arne Naess, include:
\[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{Preservation of wild plants and animals: Recognizing the intrinsic value of biodiversity.} \\ \bullet & \text{Control of the human population: Stating that the flourishing of non-human life requires a decrease in the human population.} \\ \bullet & \text{Simple living: Advocating for a reduction in materialism and a focus on quality of life rather than a high standard of living.} \\ \end{array}\] In contrast, Shallow Ecology is anthropocentric (human-centered), viewing the environment as a resource for humans to use. Social Ecology links environmental problems to social and political structures. Green Ecology is a broader, less specific term.

Step 4: Final Answer:
The principles listed are the core tenets of Deep Ecology.