A "Rightful Place for Nature": The Loss of Relationality and Modern Humans' Relationship with Nature.

Nijhuis, Harry G. J.; Herrmann, Peter

It is beyond dispute that socioenvironmental/ecological questions are a persisting major challenge for humankind and nature. What are the reasons that we are still on the wrong path? And why do so many not recognize and give the same weight to what matters to all humans with regard to nature? Looking at mainstream views and debates, this problem is rooted in perceptions that presuppose a radical (Cartesian) dichotomy in the relationship between humans and nature: "Here man, there nature." They are permeated with "anthropocentrism" and "mechanical utilitarian" notions that are conducive to the exploitative subjugation of nature. In this article, we focus on the impacts of the "loss of relationality," specific deployments of "rationality," Spinoza's view on "Natura," and the inescapability of dialectical ontology.

ANTHROPOCENTRISM; UTILITARIANISM

International Journal of Social Quality, 2023, Vol 13, Issue 2, p66

1757-0344

Academic Journal

10.3167/IJSQ.2023.130205