Perceptions, paradigms and ethics: A perspective on the social context of environmental issues

Abstract

The rapid evolution in public perceptions and understandings of environmental issues in Canada has evolved to the point where today such issues are beginning to be seen as cultural issues. The array of environmental and other societal problems is bringing into question the taken-for-granted assumptions or the worldview of‘cultural paradigm’ common to all industrialized countries. Many social analysts are suggesting that these problems are inherent in the industrial worldview and can therefore only be resolved by moving onward to another way of making sense of the world around us, and that elements of a new paradigm appear to be emerging. The major characteristics of the industrial worldview are described, and those of an emerging alternate worldview are sketched. Part of this societal questioning is evidenced in a resurgence of interest in environmental ethics but, except for‘deep ecology’, this debate has yet to be linked to the broader discussion of shifting cultural paradigms. The changing social context suggests that there are opportunities to use different policy instruments than regulation that would prevent the occurence of environmental damage in the first place. It also suggests that the active involvement of thoughtful and responsible citizens is essential if the current period of questioning is to lead to a society that is sound and dynamic in ecological and human terms.