Nature and moral considerability: A study in environmental ethics

Abstract

Is there a moral case for eradication of four centuries old dichotomy between man and nature on the basis of moral argument? To answer this question, we shall have to travel through a journey of five decades of theoretical and empirical arguments that attempt to bring about the collapse of the dichotomy. The single most significant source of dichotomy is the Cartesian metaphysical distinction between mind and body that resulted into differences between man and the other species of animals, plants and inanimate beings. The present paper reflects on the debate 'Man versus Nature' and looks at the underlying theoretical and practical presuppositions from the perspective of environmental ethics.