Environmental Ethics

Through a carefully selected and distinctive collection of readings, Environmental Ethics: Foundational Readings, Critical Responses introduces students to the world of environmental philosophy, the nature of ethics, the current deteriorating state of our environment, and the ethical issues and dilemmas surrounding the many important topics within the vital field of environmental ethics. Featuring a unique dialogical approach, the text places classic, foundational readings and critical responses to those readings in conversation with each other. This structure exposes students to opposing viewpoints and inspires deep reflection and critical thought.

Each chapter consists of readings on a central theme beginning with an introduction to ethics; the Bible and Genesis; addressing the importance of Francis Bacon’s philosophy to the Western domination of nature; Lynn White, Jr.’s blaming the environmental crisis upon Judeo-Christianity; three breakthrough, non-human-centered environmental ethical theories that uniquely argue for the expansion of our environmental thinking beyond human interests only; ecofeminism; environmental justice/racism’s founding documents; the initial climate ethics argument; the scientific proposed concept of the Anthropocene; and finally, the multi-faceted concept of eco-anxiety.

This second edition has been heavily revamped and features a new introduction, updated chapter titles, and seven new readings, as well as three new topics that explore principles of environmental justice, eco-anxiety, and climate change emergency.

Providing students with a strong foundational knowledge and uniquely encouraging critical thinking, the Second Edition of Environmental Ethics is an exemplary text for introductory courses within the field.

A Statement from the Author in Recognition and Celebration of Earth Day 2025

"This second edition of Environmental Ethics: Foundational Readings, Critical Responses continues the unique dialogical approach of the successful first edition. It places classic readings foundational in the crucial field of environmental ethics and their critical responses in conversation with each other to the great benefit of students. This structure introduces students to opposing viewpoints and inspires deep reflection and critical thought. Its goal is to inspire rationally persuasive thinking and writing. The second edition has been heavily revised and features a new introduction, seven new readings, plus three new topics that explore principles of environmental justice, the climate change emergency, and the multi-faceted concept and experience of eco-anxiety."