Categorising Environmental Value Systems (DP IB Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS)) : Revision Note

Spectrum of Environmental Value Systems

• Although there is a very wide spectrum of environmental value systems, EVSs can be broadly divided into three categories. These are:

  • Ecocentric environmental value systems (ecocentrism)

  • Anthropocentric environmental value systems (anthropocentrism)

  • Technocentric environmental value systems (technocentrism)

There is a very broad range of environmental value systems held by people and groups around the world – on a basic level these EVSs usually fall into one of three main categories

Ecocentrism, Anthropocentrism & Technocentrism

Ecocentrism

• Ecocentrism is a philosophical and ethical approach that prioritises the intrinsic value of nature and the environment over human needs and interests

• This approach emphasises that all living organisms and ecosystems have inherent worth and should be protected for their own sake

• Ecocentrism advocates for sustainable practices that maintain the balance and integrity of ecosystems and the natural world, rather than exploiting them for human benefit

• This approach is often associated with environmental movements and conservation efforts that aim to protect biodiversity, ecosystems and natural resources

Anthropocentrism

• Anthropocentrism is a worldview that places human beings at the centre of the universe, prioritising human needs and interests over those of other living beings and the environment

• This approach emphasises that humans have the right to use natural resources and ecosystems for their own benefit

• Although an anthropocentric viewpoint would ideally involve sustainable managing global systems, in reality anthropocentrism often results in unsustainable practices such as overexploitation of natural resources, habitat destruction, and pollution

• This approach only values preserving biodiversity when it can provide economic and ecological advantages to humans

• This approach is often criticised by environmentalists and conservationists for ignoring the intrinsic value of nature and its ecosystems

Technocentrism

• Technocentrism is a worldview that places technology and human ingenuity at the centre of all problem-solving and decision-making processes, often overlooking the impact on the environment and other living beings

• This approach emphasises the use of technology to overcome environmental problems and maintain human well-being

• Technocentrism often assumes that all environmental problems can be solved through technological innovation and economic growth, which may lead to neglect of the need for conservation and sustainability

• This approach is often criticised by environmentalists for being short-sighted and ignoring the complex and interconnected nature of environmental issues