NEWS: The Moral Case for Saving the Planet: Regional Perspectives

Distinguished representatives from several areas of the humanities at BU gathered today on a panel to discuss the interplay of morality and environmentalism throughout the world. Each panelist spoke to their area of interest, with Professor of History and Associate Director for Development at the African Studies Center James McCann on Sub-Saharan Africa, Associate Professor of International Relations Henrik Selin on Europe, Professor of Anthropology Robert Weller on Asia, and Dean Adil Najam of the Pardee School on the global perspective. Professor of Anthropology and CURA Director Robert Hefner moderated with Dean Mary Elizabeth Moore of the School of Theology as discussant.

Each speaker brought with them the regional perspective on which they have expertise, showcasing the diversity of responses that exist around the world to the question of morality in environmentalism. Selin discussed how the concept of the welfare state in northern Europe has evolved to include environmentalism in its purpose. He pointed out that, although the effects of climate change will not have the greatest impact on the region, the idea of “sharing the burden” is ingrained into the moral framework. Conversely, McCann pointed out that Sub-Saharan Africa is already feeling the effects, especially considering that many communities are seasonally dependent and at high risk of livelihood loss from droughts or other impacts of climate change.

McCann also delved into the interpretation of cultural connections to environmentalism, namely, that ties can be found through evaluating art, language, and religion. Weller continued by focusing on traditional Taoist and Buddhist philosophy in China and how those concepts and values translate to a regional perspective. He warned against appropriating Eastern philosophies or taking them out of context, as it would prevent us from understanding the whole of the situation. For instance, Weller noted that, while Taoism is not inherently reverent of nature, it does acknowledge the need for a certain amount of balance. He pointed out that Buddhism has already been a successful driver for grassroots environmentalism.

Dean Najam ended the initial speeches with a cumulative look at how these regional perspectives, religious or secular, impact the discussion on the international stage. When discussing the role religion has in shaping these moral values, Dean Najam emphasized that “religion takes on the understanding of the interpreter,” in that a religion has the capacity to inspire environmental action or destruction, and this direction is completely dependent on who is making that decision. He concluded his speech with a moving story that highlighted the disparity in possible reactions to environmental issues.

Still, the panelists found that many of the hurdles faced are the same, regardless of area. “The greatest moral challenge to environmental issues, social justice issues, gender equality issues, [etc.] is apathy.” Whichever morality, religion, or secular idea to which one ascribes, connections and actions are the keys to advancement.