HL.c.3—Ethical frameworks

Environmental ethical frameworks differ because they begin with different beliefs about the relationship between humans and nature.

Fundamental belief	Ethical tendency	Typical question
humans are not significantly different from the rest of nature	ecocentric: nature's components have intrinsic moral importance, sometimes equal rights	does the action preserve ecological integrity?
humans are part of nature with special responsibility	stewardship: compassion, respect and care guide use	are humans acting as responsible guardians?
nature is separate and serves human needs	anthropocentric/technocentric: prioritize human welfare and solutions	which action brings the greatest human benefit?

The same river project may be opposed for ecosystem integrity, redesigned as responsible stewardship, or supported for jobs and energy; classify the justification rather than the technology alone.

Real people may combine frameworks, but an argument must make its underlying moral belief explicit.