Identification, Self-Realization and Spirituality: A Comparative Study of Environmental Philosophy

Abstract

In this thesis, I compare Western and Asian environmental philosophies in order to suggest a proper human-nature relationship. I consider, in particular, the common core values which are specified in major Asian traditions and by two influential environmental philosophers in the West, Arne Naess and John Passmore. I begin with Western traditions. I show that in addition to Passmore and Naess, three major Asian traditions, namely, Chinese, Indian and Japanese, highlight three basic values in their accounts of the human-nature relationship. I regard identification, self-realization and spirituality as common core values. Focusing on the common core values as a viable solution to the ecological crisis, I argue for a new kind of self, a ?neighboring self?, which can maintain the right attitude toward the environment. I argue that a neighborhood sense may lead us to an alternative option beyond anthropocentrism and nonanthropocentrism. This alternative option is a neighbor-centric relationship.