anthropocentrism的意思|示意

Anthropocentrism, a word derived from two Greek words, is the belief that people are the most important or the center of the universe. In philosophical terms, anthropocentrism is the belief that human beings alone possess intrinsic value that overrides any value possessed by other forms of life. In terms of religion, anthropocentrism is the belief that the divine was created for humankind and that the universe exists only to serve the needs and interests of humanity.

Anthropocentrism has been an important and influential worldview in the history of Western thought. For instance, during the Enlightenment, the Judeo-Christian view of the universe as existing for the sake of humankind became more widely accepted. This helped to usher in an era in which human beings considered themselves as the sole arbiters of right and wrong, and sought to exercise control over nature.

This belief has had a profound impact on the spiritual, social, and environmental spheres. For instance, it has been used to justify colonialism and the exploitation of the environment. It has also been used to discount the importance of spiritual and religious beliefs, as well as the beliefs of non-Western cultures.

Anthropocentrism is often associated with the philosophical school of humanism, which seeks to prioritize human concerns and interests. However, it is important to note that humanism does not necessarily equate to anthropocentrism. Humanism emphasizes reason, science, and compassion in dealing with the world, whereas anthropocentrism emphasizes human beings as the center of the universe.

Anthropocentrism has been criticized for its tendency to ignore the needs of other living creatures and ecosystems. In recent years, this criticism has led to a shift away from anthropocentrism and towards eco-centric worldviews, which prioritize the needs of the environment. These worldviews recognize that all forms of life are interconnected and seek to promote a more harmonious relationship between humans and the natural world.