Ethics in Biodiversity Conservation

This book explores the role of ethics and philosophy in biodiversity conservation, offering a systematic account of central normative concepts and emphasizing the decision-making challenges of biodiversity conservation. It argues that a nuanced account of instrumental values provides a powerful tool for reasoning about the values of biodiversity and engages with recent suggestions on normative aspects of biodiversity conservation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 182 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate relationship between ethics and philosophy in the realm of biodiversity conservation. Its twofold objective is to provide a detailed and systematic exploration of central normative concepts commonly employed in conservation biology but often overlooked in terms of explication and justification. These concepts encompass a range of ideas such as values (intrinsic, instrumental, and relational), rights, and duties.

On the other hand, the book aims to highlight the numerous decision-making challenges inherent in biodiversity conservation, emphasizing the importance of engaging environmental philosophers and applied ethicists in the discourse. The book argues that a nuanced account of instrumental values holds immense potential for reasoning about the values of biodiversity. It also critically examines relational values, the concept of the rights of nature, and the notion of risk, demonstrating how moral philosophy plays a crucial role in understanding and addressing these concepts. Consequently, the book engages with recent suggestions on normative aspects of biodiversity conservation, highlighting the need for moral philosophy in this field.

The overarching goal of this book is to offer conservation biologists and policy-makers a systematic overview of concepts and assessments of the reasons for reaching prescriptive conclusions about biodiversity conservation. By providing a deep understanding of these principles, the book aims to clarify the role of applied ethics and a refined understanding of the tools it can offer in addressing the complex challenges of biodiversity conservation.

This title will appeal to students and scholars engaged in the fields of conservation biology, conservation policy, environmental ethics, and environmental philosophy. It serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of the ethical dimensions of biodiversity conservation and the role of philosophical inquiry in shaping conservation strategies and policies.

Weight: 349g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367627683