Man–Nature Relation in the Light of Selected Philosophical and Ecophilosophical Standpoints

Abstract

Within the scope of this presentation I would like to present two perspectives
of the outlook and analysis of a relation between man and nature: the philosophical
and ecophilosophical one. I want to present differences and similarities between
them, concerning both the man’s place in nature and our attitude toward nature.
Within the sphere of European culture the man–nature relation has gained various
interpretations. In the reflective horizon of different eras both the paradigms of an
instrumental attitude towards nature (anthropocentric paradigm) as well as those of
noninstrumental approaches are supported. The latter constitute the philosophical
origins of pro-ecological thinking, developed further by eco-philosophy, which
takes effort to build up both, the theory and practical counter-measures aimed at
overcoming the ecological crisis.