An Inquiry Concerning the Acceptance of Intrinsic Value Theories of Nature

W.F. Butler and T.G. Acott

Environmental Values, 2007, vol. 16, issue 2, pages 149-168

Abstract: This study empirically assesses the extent to which intrinsic value theories of nature are accepted and acknowledged outside the realm of academic environmental ethics. It focuses on twenty of the largest landowning organisations in England, including both conservation and non-conservation organisations and investigates the environmental philosophical beliefs and values held by representative individuals of these groups. An in-depth interview was held with a representative from each organisation. The interviews were analysed using qualitative data analysis software and the results compared against a backdrop of academic philosophical positions. The study found that an ecocentric position which acknowledges nature's intrinsic value was adopted by the majority of respondents, both from conservation and non-conservation organisations. However, it was also found that individuals felt the idea of nature's intrinsic value was generally not reflected in organisational policy.

Keywords: Intrinsic value; conservation; land management; qualitative analysis; environmental ethics (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: D46 Q2 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2007

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Persistent link: http://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:env:journl:ev16:ev1607

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