Reading guide for “The Ethics of Respect for Nature” by Paul. W. Taylor

Word process your responses.

 1.  Construct the reference entry for this essay in APA format.

 2.  Read and reflect on the paragraph that begins “The philosopher Paul Taylor…” on page 4.

 3.  Read and reflect on “The Dominance of Moral Norms” (pp. 8-9).

 4.  Be able to define the term prima facia.

 5.  Paraphrase the last two sentences in the first paragraph of the essay.

 6.  Explain the anthropocentric view of the relationship between humans and the natural

environment (p. 374).

 7.  Explain Taylor’s life-centered view (p. 374).

 8.  Explain the difference between an entity or organism’s well-being and its inherent worth

(p. 375-7).

 9.  Explain the difference between respect for nature and love of nature (p. 377).

10. What is a belief system (p. 379)?

11. Skim page 364 and define biocentrism.

12. Explain the three elements that make up the ethics of respect for nature (pp. 379-80).

13. Summarize the four components of the biocentric outlook on nature (pp. 380-8).

14.  Now…What is the thesis of the essay?

15. Think about this:  Where does this essay connect to the Baxter essay?