Deep Ecology: Towards a New Philosophy of the Environment

Abstract

Abstract: Eco-philosophy, or Eco-sophy, is one of the most important environmental movements that emerged in response to the prevailing global view of the environment established by Western modernity. This view centered around human centrality and saw the world as a collection of parts where humans occupied the top of the environmental pyramid. Arne Naess sought to change our relationship with nature through this perspective, appreciating the lives of other beings and things as well. The non-human also influences the formation of our identity and shapes our understanding of values and goodness. Eco-sophy or deep ecology called for a radical change related to reconstructing our worldview, as highlighted by Felix Guattari in his discussion of the three ecologies. This approach aims to create opportunities for shared living among all beings and things in the environment based on values of empathy, mutual support, respect, and dialogue. Keywords: Philosophy, Environment, Ecology, Eco-sophy, Western Centrality.