Author: Irene

Zoos have long occupied a complex space in our societal relationship with the natural world. For many, they are beloved institutions offering educational experiences and a chance to marvel at exotic creatures. For others, they represent a fundamental ethical compromise. To fully grapple with the morality of zoos, we must examine them through the distinct […]

The grandeur of our planet, the intricate dance of ecosystems, the sheer abundance of life – it’s all breathtaking. And yet, beneath this awe-inspiring reality, a chilling question often whispers in the philosophical shadows: are humans innately incapable of managing the Earth’s delicate balance, and are we, by our very nature, doomed to destroy it […]

We all crave moments of reprieve, of joy, of simply being. For many of us, the most profound forms of leisure and play unfold in the embrace of the natural world. We hike sun-dappled trails, paddle across tranquil waters, or simply sit, breathing in the quietude of a forest. As we explored in previous posts, […]

The act of eating meat, a practice woven into the fabric of human history and culture, becomes a complex ethical puzzle when viewed through the various frameworks of environmental philosophy. It forces us to confront our place in the natural world and our responsibilities to its myriad inhabitants. Let’s dissect the ethics of meat consumption […]

The national parks of the United States are more than just scenic vistas; they are embodiments of a profound philosophical commitment to wildness, preservation, and the intrinsic value of nature. For generations, their fate has been influenced by fluctuating government administrations, each with their own views on conservation. But as we look ahead, a new […]

The majestic beauty of our national parks beckons, offering solace and wonder. Yet, a nagging question arises: is traveling to these natural sanctuaries an ethical act when the journey itself often fuels the climate crisis? The Argument for Experiencing National Parks: Intrinsic and Instrumental Value At its core, the preservation of national parks stems from […]

The Biophilia Hypothesis, most notably articulated by biologist E.O. Wilson in his 1984 book “Biophilia,” proposes a fascinating idea about the human-nature relationship. Here are the key points: In essence: The Biophilia Hypothesis posits that our affinity for nature isn’t a coincidence or a luxury, but a fundamental part of what makes us human, hardwired […]

Eudaimonia (pronounced roughly you-dai-moh-nee-ah). Eudaimonia is an ancient Greek term that is central to Aristotelian ethics and other Hellenistic philosophies. It’s often translated, but no single English word perfectly captures its meaning. Common translations include: What Aristotle Meant by Eudaimonia in the Context of Human Existence: The philosopher most famously associated with Eudaimonia is Aristotle, […]

In my last post, “Outdoor Activities and Ethical Stewardship: A Reciprocal Relationship,” we explored how engaging with the natural world through activities like hiking, paddling, or simply sitting quietly outside, isn’t just related to environmental stewardship – it is stewardship. We talked about the embodied awareness it fosters and the powerful, personal connection that makes […]

We hear a lot about environmental stewardship. It usually sounds like something external—protecting forests, reducing carbon, preserving endangered species. But stewardship isn’t only about policies and science. It’s also about presence. About showing up. And for many of us, the way we show up is through outdoor activities. The outdoors isn’t just scenery. It’s a […]