Artificial intelligence, while presenting itself as a novelty in the fields of education, science and the business industry, is likely being used as a hegemonic tool for economic and political control. Concerns about privacy ethics, class division and the specter of AI-incited biowarfare controlled by supremacist-minded entities that benefit from the datafication of individuals for economic profit and the attainment of politicized control-seeking objectives are the axial arguments of this position paper. As a result, this review makes a case that (...) AI is being used as a tool of hegemony by presenting an analytical framework derived from the ‘less mainstream’ varied corpus of literature published between 1984 and 2024. Furthermore, while the literature also reveals attempts to monitor misuse of AI, to date there have been no solutions offered concerning privacy and surveillance, alternatives to the potential loss of jobs through automated AI or the menace of AI-operated biological warfare already being tested in war-torn parts of the world. Resolving the existing hegemonic challenges is of paramount importance and must be properly addressed in order not to be met with an existential crisis threatening the continuity of humanity. (shrink)

This article aims to analyze the perspective of the philosopher Hans Jonas with regard to the rights of animals to life. We will show how, according to Jonas, the ethical significance of animals emerges as they reveal nature’s vulnerability and underscore the moral duty of humans, whose responsibility intensifies as their capacity to cause harm increases. Within this framework, it is essential to recognize that (1) Jonas supports the criterion of maximum benefit when it comes to animal experimentation for scientific (...) purposes; (2) his theory reflects a concern for the conditions of animals within the meat industry, advocating for moderation in consumption; and (3) his ethical approach is particularly focused on the protection of endangered animal species, a concern that has become increasingly urgent with the rise of new powers of technology. For Jonas, an ethical theory that seeks to address the challenge of species preservation must begin with a theoretical redefinition that acknowledges animals as ‘ends in themselves’, a shift that would necessitate a re-evaluation not only of ethics but also of underlying ontological and metaphysical assumptions. Finally, as we will discuss, Jonas’s ongoing debate on the rights of animals to life brings to the forefront the central concern of his ethics of responsibility: maintaining the balance of the cosmic whole against the destructive impact of human activity, which has led to the extinction of animal species with which humans share a ‘solidarity of interests’. It is within this context that Jonas’s stance on animal rights should be understood, and it is precisely here that his position stands out as both innovative and urgent in the defense of animal life. (shrink)

This research investigates the commercialization of urban agriculture, which is increasingly recognized not only for enhancing food security but also for its economic potential. This trend towards prioritizing profit stems from commercialization driven by market dynamics and various stakeholders. The study explores how this commercialization influences agricultural practices, either in alignment or in conflict with environmental ethics. A qualitative methodology was employed, engaging 43 participants through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The findings indicate that global elite actors and specific policy (...) frameworks significantly impact the commodification of urban agricultural products. On a global scale, this commercialization fosters policy development aimed at promoting environmental sustainability, leading to production methods that align more closely with environmental principles. Conversely, the local context presents a different scenario, where farmers cultivating sloped land without perennial crops often rely on artificial inputs and contaminated irrigation water. Local producers face constraints imposed by contractual relationships with intermediaries who play a significant role in the production process. (shrink)

In the 1970s, the discovery of the problem of the hole in the ozone layer represented a crucial milestone in the history of science and the environment. Scientists such as Mario Molina and F. Sherry Rowland revealed that chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), previously thought to be harmless, could destroy the ozone layer, leading to global awareness of environmental protection. However, they faced resistance from industry and misinformation. Confirmation of the problem came with Jonathan Shanklin’s work in Antarctica. The effects of ozone depletion, (...) such as increased skin cancer, were documented, and humanity reacted with the Montreal Protocol, phasing out harmful substances. Furthermore, the link between the historical success of science-based environmental actions and the modern challenges posed by misinformation should be emphasized, especially considering the rise of digital platforms as both tools and threats to public understanding. Today, tackling disinformation in global environmental problems represents a substantial challenge, requiring science education, raising awareness on social media, valuing traditional sources, training in source verification, recognizing science as a reliable source, and tackling environmental challenges based on science. This article proposes actionable solutions such as integrating critical media literacy into education, establishing international regulations to curb disinformation, and leveraging collaborative platforms to promote accurate scientific communication. It argues that strengthening international cooperation, modeled on the Montreal Protocol, is crucial to countering misinformation and fostering effective global environmental policies. The history of the Montreal Protocol highlights the importance of science, international cooperation, and determined action in protecting the environment and human health. (shrink)