Abstract:
The broad objective of this stud) is to develop a philosophical analysis on the
"Concept of Conservation" which is identified as a basic theoretical position of
practical reasoning in environmental ethics. In order to achieve this objective. the
current study was originated to revisit the concept of conservation in Environmental
Ethics.
Since this study was mainly engaged in both theoretical and practical domains.
several research methods for collecting data and analyzing them were employed.
Therefore. the qualitative data (through literature surveys) were used in gathering
information and in theorizing the conceptual frameworks. Collected data were
analyzed using (a) conceptual analysis, (b) content analysis. (c) phenomenological
methods and (d) statistical tools.
The present form of conservation through EIA retains a practice merely based on
anthropocentric and extended individualistic ethical approaches. The extended
approaches are Bio-centric ethics and Eco-centric ethical platforms. When
conservation was based only on these three ethical approaches. leaving out the hiocultural
and ethical appruachcs, which relates to the social and cultural facets, the
process of environmental conservation confines itself into a "Iimited""a narrow" and
"an anthropocentric" practice. This study examines gaps between Anthropocentricextended
Individualistic approaches versus Bio-cultural ethical approach and attempt
to uncover the limitations, \\ hich were created through technical conservation
approaches or current forms of Environment Impact Assessments.
This study urges to include the bio-cultural ethical approach into the concept of
conservation with non-visible stake holders in relation to the given environmental
management contents and it develops the "meaning" in the process of environmental
-
protection considering the sectors such as cultural responses, societal influences,
economical and livelihood concerns into it.
XI
This study argues an inclusive conservation, instead of instrumental value format
based on anthropocentric approach, an instincts value format for environmental
policy making processes, instead of instrumental value judgments. The study further
recommend the (I) new definitions for the process of conservation, (2) conceptual
guidelines for conservation tool kits, (3) theoretical and ethical foundation for valuing
the natural resources and (4) policy framework for regulating procedures.
