+27 680 77 9615
280 Oak Avenue, Randburg, Johannesburg, ZA
, +27 680 77 9615
280 Oak Avenue, Randburg, Johannesburg, ZA
Question 1
Provide a detailed explanation of each of the following aspects:
(a) Anthropocentrism (5)
(b) Biocentrism (5)
(c) A definition of environmental law (5)
a) Anthropocentrism is the philosophical viewpoint that places humans at the
center of consideration for the value and moral worth of the world. This
perspective perceives humans as superior to other beings, including non-
human animals, plants, and natural resources, and regards the environment
as having instrumental value, existing primarily to serve human interests.
Anthropocentrism often leads to the exploitation of natural resources and
degradation of the environment, resulting in environmental problems such as
climate change, loss of biodiversity, and pollution.1
b) Biocentrism is an ethical viewpoint that recognizes the intrinsic value and
moral worth of all living things, including humans, animals, plants, and
ecosystems. This perspective regards humans as part of the natural world,
and not superior to other living things. Biocentrism emphasizes the need for
humans to respect and protect the natural environment and its inhabitants,
and recognizes the interdependence and interconnectedness of all living
1
Taylor, P. W. (1986). Respect for nature: A theory of environmental ethics. Princeton University Press.
280 Oak Avenue, Randburg, Johannesburg, ZA
, +27 680 77 9615
280 Oak Avenue, Randburg, Johannesburg, ZA
Question 1
Provide a detailed explanation of each of the following aspects:
(a) Anthropocentrism (5)
(b) Biocentrism (5)
(c) A definition of environmental law (5)
a) Anthropocentrism is the philosophical viewpoint that places humans at the
center of consideration for the value and moral worth of the world. This
perspective perceives humans as superior to other beings, including non-
human animals, plants, and natural resources, and regards the environment
as having instrumental value, existing primarily to serve human interests.
Anthropocentrism often leads to the exploitation of natural resources and
degradation of the environment, resulting in environmental problems such as
climate change, loss of biodiversity, and pollution.1
b) Biocentrism is an ethical viewpoint that recognizes the intrinsic value and
moral worth of all living things, including humans, animals, plants, and
ecosystems. This perspective regards humans as part of the natural world,
and not superior to other living things. Biocentrism emphasizes the need for
humans to respect and protect the natural environment and its inhabitants,
and recognizes the interdependence and interconnectedness of all living
1
Taylor, P. W. (1986). Respect for nature: A theory of environmental ethics. Princeton University Press.
