Shallow-green ecology vs. deep-green ecology (OCR A-Level Politics): Revision Notes

29.2.1 Shallow-green ecology vs. deep-green ecology

Deep and shallow ecology

Ecologism is a political ideology that places considerable importance on states and other actor's impact on the natural environment. Ecologists believe that actors in global politics should take steps to protect the natural environment and that it is a moral responsibility to do so.

Deep ecology:

• All living things (plants, animals and humans) are of equal moral value and any action that fails to preserve this equality would be morally
• Human beings are not more important than other living things rejecting the idea of 'anthropocentrism' which believes that human beings are superior in the natural world.
• Individualism should be rejected and human beings should always consider how we live in harmony with the rest of nature.
• Nature is not something to be exploited for human gain Very few actors in global politics express the views of deep ecology, even the most committed NGO'S and environmental campaigners follow the ideas of shallow ecology.

Shallow ecology

• It is acceptable to approach environmental issues from the perspective of what will benefit humankind
• Sustainable development is the priority as it combines conserving the natural environment with advancing human development, actively protecting the interests of future generations of humans
• Human instincts and priorities can be modified to reduce harm to the environment but it is still acceptable to prioritise human needs.

The idea of green politics emerged in the late 1970's and with it the first references to 'green' political thinking and parties (first in Belgium and Germany). However, green parties have struggled to gain electoral support to form governments.