Eco-ethics

The arguments over climate change and the action it demands include scientific and economic considerations. What are the potential effects of ongoing warming, and what is the cost of slowing that rise in temperature? Will the relative cost later be less than the cost now? Do we have time to wait? Does the environmental benefit of decreased consumption outweigh the economic impact?

Throughout these questions are complex ethical considerations about the value of human life, sacrifice and the distribution of wealth. So, break out your ethical calculators and follow the logic of John Broome (you know, the moral philosopher) as he walks us through the ethics of climate change.

Well, he actually only walks us through some of the ethics of climate change, but it is a useful beginning toward thinking about this argument in academic rather than emotional terms. Now, instead of saying “think of the poor children”, you will be able to say, “you need to readjust your understanding of the discount rate”. What is the discount rate? Read and find out.

Thanks to Goose for pointing this article out.

Nic Darling is currently only half a marketer and writer. The other half is actively engaged in dealing with seasonal allergies.