Title: The value of species /
Authors: McCord, Edward LeRoy.
Publisher: Yale University Press,
Year: 2012
Subjects: Environmental ethics.; Species.; Biodiversity; Extinction (Biology); Nature Effect of human beings on; Environmental policy; Biodiversity conservation Social aspects.
Abstract: We humans value a great variety of plant and animal species for their usefulness to us. But what is the value--if any--of a species that offers no practical use? In the face of accelerating extinctions across the globe, what ought we to do? Amid this sea of losses, what is our responsibility? How do we assess the value of nonhuman species? In this book, naturalist and philosopher Edward L. McCord explores urgent questions about the destruction of species and provides a new framework for appreciating and defending every form of life. The book draws insights from philosophy, ethics, law, and biology to arrive at a new way of thinking about the value of species to humanity is intellectual: individual species are phenomena of such intellectual moment--so interesting in their own right--that they rise above other values and merit enduring human embrace. The author discusses the threats other species confront and delineates the challenges involved in creating any kind of public instrument to protect species.
Contents: To an inquisitive mind open to honest reflection, the value of every species is incalculable -- The intellectual value of species to humans stems from our unique character -- The fate of life on earth hinges on property values -- Humans are poised to destroy the resources of a world of bountiful interest -- Property ownership and the desire for money work against the interests of species -- Free market environmentalism places profits above the public interest -- Species have no direct claim for consideration in an ethical community -- What kind of humanity do we embrace?