Ethical Principles for Planetary Health: A Preliminary Inquiry

Area of Science:

• Environmental Ethics
• Planetary Health
• Bioethics

Background:

• The emerging field of planetary health ethics necessitates a re-evaluation of current ethical frameworks.
• Existing human-centered ethical models may be insufficient for addressing global environmental and health challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To articulate preliminary ethical principles for planetary health.
• To explore the potential of Japanese traditions in forming universal ethical guidelines for human-nature relationships.

Main Methods:

• A conceptual commentary approach was used.
• Consideration of ethical domains including non-sentient nature, non-human animals, and human beings.
• Analysis of Japanese traditions and concepts relevant to planetary health.

Main Results:

• Ethical principles for planetary health require moving beyond anthropocentrism.
• A proposed framework emphasizes humans as integral parts of the planet, spiritually connected to nature and animals.
• Japanese philosophical concepts offer a potential foundation for universal ethical principles.

Conclusions:

• Defining planetary health ethics challenges us to adopt a more holistic and interconnected worldview.
• Adopting these principles fosters a relationship of stewardship rather than ownership towards the planet's resources.
• This ethical shift is crucial for the sustainable pursuit of planetary health.