Date of Award
1979
Document Type
Senior Scholars Paper (Open Access)
Department
Colby College. Philosophy Dept.
Advisor(s)
F. Russell Cole
Second Advisor
William B. Miller
Abstract
This work is meant to provide an analysis of some of the basic philosophical considerations which will have to be made in order to effect the favorable resolution of an environmental crisis. I begin by defining what I mean by "environmental crisis" and what the evidence for the existence of such a crisis seems to be, though I draw no conclusions here. I examine also the concept of the "technological myth," that is, the belief that all human problems can be solved by increased technology alone. The main thesis of the work is the need for a new "technological paradigm." This is based on the assumption that applied science will be necessary for the solution to environmental crisis but that the basic issue is one of determining how to direct technology. This new paradigm must, therefore, be a "value" paradigm, for only human values can direct human behavior; science alone being "descriptive" rather than "prescriptive." This new paradigm must consist of our most basic existing moral values, those values which most or all of us hold to be the most important.
Keywords
Environmental protection, Nature -- Effect of human beings
Recommended Citation
Rice, David M., "Philosophy and the environmental crisis: foundation for a new technological paradigm" (1979). Senior Scholar Papers. Paper 228.https://digitalcommons.colby.edu/seniorscholars/228
Copyright
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