Do Humans Have Moral Duties Toward Nature
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53573/rhimrj.2026.v13n04.008Keywords:
Environmental Ethics, Moral Duties, Nature, Ecosystems, Biodiversity, Sustainability, Animal Welfare, Environmental Justice, Biocentrism, StewardshipAbstract
The study explores the concept of moral obligations towards nature, animals, living entities and ecosystems in the light of environmental ethics. Until now, nature has been perceived essentially as a living source for human life and economic growth, but today, with the exacerbation of environmental issues like climate change, pollution, biodiversity loss, deforestation and ecological imbalance, environmental protection has become a big moral concern. Major philosophical trends such as anthropocentrism, ecocentrism, biocentrism, sentientism and environmental stewardship are discussed, all of which place a moral duty on humans for the care of both humans and non-humans. It is a call to consider the intrinsic value of animals and ecosystems and treat them with respect, protection, and humane care. The study also examines moral duties related to the prevention of animal cruelty, the preservation of biodiversity, sustainability, natural resources, environmental justice, and future generations of the ecosystem. The global data from 2024-26 shows rising public concern about climate change, pollution and animal welfare, highlighting a growing awareness of the environment on a global scale. The study suggests that human beings as rational and strong creatures must take part in the protection of the earth by carrying out sustainable practices, ethical behavior, and environmental responsibility in the collective to achieve ecological balance and the survival of life on earth.
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