Abstract

In this dissertation, I argue that virtue ethics is a better approach to environmental ethics than what is called the extentionist position which allocates rights to animals, or the utilitarian position which takes into moral consideration all sentient creatures, or the land ethic position which seeks to promote the integrity and beauty of the biotic community. Virtue ethics is a better approach for two reasons. First, it coherently explains why diverse examples, such as the killing of a sled dog and the destruction of a natural formation, are wrong. Second, and more importantly, virtue ethics offers concrete ways in which to cultivate and fashion our characters in order to improve our relationship with nature. I explicate a catalogue of virtues and vices that are relevant to our relationship with nature. I include the vices of narcissism and misanthropy, and the virtues of humility, attentiveness, and intimacy. Narcissism is a vice which reflects an absorption of self. This self absorption prohibits a person from entering a healthy relationship with people, plants, animals, or places. Humility is a virtue which helps us move the focus away from self and come into contact with a more complex reality. Attentiveness is the ability to attend to another, whether it be a person or place, justly and lovingly. Intimacy is a development of a close and familiar relationship that is marked by care and concern. This vice of misanthropy is a hatred and distrust of mankind. This is a self-defeating vice which sometimes infects people who love non-human nature