Etymology of Anthropocentrism
The term “anthropocentrism” derives from the Greek words “anthropos,” meaning “human,” and “kentron,” meaning “center.” In an academic context, “anthropocentrism” refers to a worldview that places humanity at the central and highest point of significance within the natural world.
It signifies a human-centered perspective that often perceives all other elements of the environment, including animals, plants, and ecosystems, primarily in relation to their utility or importance to human interests and well-being.
Anthropocentrism has been a subject of significant discourse in environmental ethics, philosophy, and ecology, as it raises questions about the ethical treatment of the non-human world and the impact of this perspective on ecological sustainability and conservation efforts.
Meanings of Anthropocentrism
| Aspect | Meaning |
| Human-Centered Worldview | In literature and literary theory, “anthropocentrism” refers to a human-centered perspective, where human interests, experiences, and values take precedence over the natural world. This perspective often emphasizes the significance of human characters and their concerns within narratives. |
| Portrayal of Nature as Subordinate | Anthropocentrism in literature can manifest as the portrayal of the natural world as subservient to human needs and desires. Nature is often depicted as a resource to be exploited or as a backdrop for human stories, reflecting the belief that its primary value lies in its utility to human characters. |
| Exploration of Ethical Dilemmas | Literary works can explore the ethical dilemmas associated with anthropocentrism, raising questions about the treatment of non-human entities, environmental degradation, and the consequences of prioritizing human interests at the expense of the natural world. Such exploration contributes to discussions on environmental ethics and sustainability. |
| Conflict with Ecocritical Approaches | Anthropocentrism in literature often stands in contrast to ecocritical approaches, which seek to transcend human-centered perspectives and instead focus on the interconnectedness and intrinsic value of the entire ecosystem. This contrast can serve as a central theme in literary works, emphasizing the need for a more ecologically conscious worldview. |
| Critique of Human Arrogance | Some literary works use anthropocentrism as a theme to critique human arrogance and the harmful consequences of exploiting the natural world. Such critiques challenge readers to reevaluate their relationship with the environment and consider more sustainable and ecologically responsible approaches. |
Definition of Anthropocentrism as a Theoretical Term
Anthropocentrism, as a theoretical term, denotes a worldview in which human beings are positioned at the center of significance, with their interests, experiences, and values taking precedence over all other elements of the natural world. It reflects a human-centered perspective that often portrays nature as subservient to human needs and desires.
This concept is crucial in discussions of environmental ethics, as it highlights the ethical and philosophical dilemmas surrounding human dominance and the treatment of non-human entities within the ecosystem.
Anthropocentrism: Theorists, Works and Arguments
Theorists:
- Martin Heidegger: Heidegger’s existentialist philosophy and critique of anthropocentrism influenced discussions within literary theory. His works, such as Being and Time, questioned humanity’s relationship with the natural world and its impact on literary representations.
- Val Plumwood: As an ecofeminist philosopher, Plumwood challenged anthropocentrism by highlighting its implications for gender and the environment. Her works, including Feminism and the Mastery of Nature, provide a critical perspective on the subject.
Works:
- Martin Heidegger’sBeing and Time: This philosophical work introduced the concept of “Being-in-the-world” and offered insights into human interactions with the environment, which are relevant for literary analysis.
- Val Plumwood’s Feminism and the Mastery of Nature: In this influential work, Plumwood explored the connections between anthropocentrism, gender, and ecological issues, contributing to the discourse within eco-criticism.
Arguments:
- Martin Heidegger: Heidegger’s arguments question anthropocentrism by examining human existence within the context of the environment. His critique encourages literary theorists to analyze how literature represents the human-nature relationship and its philosophical implications.
- Val Plumwood: Plumwood’s arguments center on the gendered aspects of anthropocentrism, highlighting how it intersects with ecofeminism. She contends that the mastery of nature often parallels the subjugation of women, offering a valuable perspective for understanding the representation of gender and nature in literature.
Anthropocentrism and Literary Theories
The concept of the agency of nature is relevant within several literary theories and critical approaches, as it addresses the dynamic interactions between humans and the environment, ecological interconnectedness, and ethical considerations. Here are literary theories in which the agency of nature is particularly relevant:
- Ecocriticism: Ecocriticism explores the representation of nature in literature and emphasizes the reciprocal relationships between humans and the natural world. The agency of nature aligns with ecocritical discussions about how literature portrays the influence of the environment, ecosystems, and non-human entities on human experiences and narratives.
- Postcolonial Ecocriticism: This theoretical approach combines postcolonial and ecocritical perspectives to examine how colonial and postcolonial literature depict the agency of nature in relation to imperialism, land dispossession, and environmental justice. It addresses the ecological impacts of colonialism and the resistance of indigenous cultures.
- Bioregionalism: Bioregionalism focuses on the local ecological relationships and unique features of specific regions. The agency of nature is relevant in bioregionalism as it acknowledges the distinctive natural characteristics of a place and how they shape the literature and cultural narratives associated with that region.
- Nature Writing: Nature writing as a literary genre often embodies the agency of nature, as it aims to convey the intrinsic value of the natural world and the ways in which the environment actively participates in the narrative. Nature writers frequently emphasize the non-human entities’ roles in shaping the story.
- Environmental Ethics and Literature: Literary works that engage with environmental ethics frequently explore the agency of nature in ethical terms. This approach delves into the moral responsibilities of characters, authors, and readers in recognizing and respecting the intrinsic value of non-human entities in narratives.
The agency of nature provides a critical lens for understanding how literature represents the environment and ecological processes, challenges anthropocentric perspectives, and raises ethical and environmental considerations in literary analysis. It underscores the interconnectedness of all life forms and natural forces in storytelling.
Anthropocentrism in Literary Criticism
- Silent Spring by Rachel Carson In “Silent Spring,” Rachel Carson exposes the devastating impact of anthropocentrism on the environment. The book’s critique of pesticides and their harmful effects on ecosystems serves as a stark reminder of how human-centered attitudes can lead to ecological crises.
- The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck John Steinbeck’s novel, “The Grapes of Wrath,” explores the plight of Dust Bowl migrants during the Great Depression. It critiques anthropocentrism by portraying the human exploitation of the land, leading to environmental degradation and human suffering. The novel underscores the consequences of prioritizing human interests over ecological balance.
- The Overstory by Richard Powers “The Overstory” by Richard Powers challenges anthropocentrism by focusing on the interconnectedness of all life forms, including trees and forests. It critiques human exploitation of natural resources and offers a narrative that emphasizes the intrinsic value of the natural world.
- Ishmael by Daniel Quinn In “Ishmael,” Daniel Quinn presents a critique of anthropocentrism through a unique dialogue between a man and a gorilla. The novel challenges the human belief that the world exists solely for human use and questions the sustainability of such an outlook.
These novels serve as literary critiques of anthropocentrism, highlighting its detrimental effects on the environment, social structures, and human-nature relationships. They encourage readers to reevaluate their perspectives and consider more ecologically conscious approaches to living in harmony with the natural world.
Suggested Readings
- Callicott, J. Baird. Thinking Like a Planet: The Land Ethic and the Earth Ethic. Oxford University Press, 2014.
- Garrard, Greg. Ecocriticism. Routledge, 2004.
- Heidegger, Martin. Being and Time. Translated by John Macquarrie and Edward Robinson, Harper & Row, 1962.
- Plumwood, Val. Feminism and the Mastery of Nature. Routledge, 1993.
- Regan, Tom. The Case for Animal Rights. University of California Press, 1983.
- Warren, Karen J. Ecofeminist Philosophy: A Western Perspective on What It Is and Why It Matters. Rowman & Littlefield, 2000.
