Phil 245

Dr. Frasz

Take Home Test #2 (75 pts.)

1. One of the early attempts at establishing an adequate environmental ethic was to extend traditonal moral theories so as to cover environmental issues. Thus we saw ethicists like Singer, Regan, Stone, Fineberg, et al. to use the traditonal human based ethical theories to deal with environmental issues. Discuss some of these attempts and evaluate the strengths, successes, wealknesses, and limitations to such extentionistic approached.

2. Deep Ecology, Social Ecology and Ecofeminism all present themselves as reactions against and alternatives to what has begin called variously in the text "the dominant world view" or the "traditional western view of reality and values". Describe what this world view is and what features about it do people who hold any of these three positions find objectionable or problematic. Then describe ways these three positions present themselves as part of the critique and as an alternative. Which of these positions in your view presents the best position? Why? Defend your answer.

3. Much of contemporary environmental ethics involves a continued debate between those who hold a holistic position (like Leopold’ Land Ethic or Rolstons’ Ecocentric ethic) and those supporting an pluralistic or individualistic one. Describe these two general positions, illustrating each with examples from the those environmental philosophers that we have studied. Which position is in your considered view, the stronger one and why?

In your answers you should show to me the depth of your understanding of the issue. This will include showing me your understanding of the positions of various thinkers, the arguments for different positions, the strengths and weaknesses of each, etc. When you describe your position be sure to show your understanding of possible challenges or problems to your position and how you answer these challenges. In grading these papers I look for breadth and depth, accuracy, and clarity. These questions are your opportunity demonstrate your full understanding of these broad topics, as well as your access to secondary sources, and other materials mentioned in the text.

These answers are to be typed in standard paper format. The answers are due by the beginning of class Dec. 18