Human earth shapers/ETHS101/Earth Systems Exchange/Philosophical Themes

Philosophical Themes

In the pervious learning pathway (rock records) we saw how the geosphere has changed over time with continents moving around on plates. Other Earth systems have also changed over geological time. In this Learning Pathway we will look at the changes in atmosphere and hydrosphere over time and the interaction between the geosphere and these other Earth systems.

Summary

The 20-minute lecture below introduces some of the ethical themes relevant to this unit, including the following:

1. Distinguishing pragmatic shoulds/oughts from ethical shoulds/oughts;
2. Understanding ethical shoulds/oughts and ethical standing in relation to interests, rights, and intrinsic value;
3. Considering the question: what entities or states of affairs might have ethical standing as a consequence of having interests, rights and intrinsic value?

Think Pair Share - Philosophical Themes

Perhaps you have some thoughts, comments or questions about these philosophical themes that you would like to share with other participants in the unit. If so, you can post then in the following discussion board