A Call to Action: Practical Steps towards Earth Jurisprudence
When we speak of justice, we often refer to it as a concept confined within the realm of human society. We think of it as a principle that governs the interactions between individuals or between individuals and the state. This anthropocentric view of justice, however, is inadequate and, I daresay, even harmful in the face of the environmental crises that we are currently living through. In order to address these crises, we must broaden our understanding of justice to include not just humans, but all beings that inhabit our planet. This is the concept of Earth Jurisprudence.
Earth Jurisprudence, or the rights of nature, is the principle that the natural world has inherent rights and that these rights are not dependent on human recognition. It is a concept that challenges the traditional legal paradigm that views nature as property and promotes a more holistic approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of all life.
So, how do we move towards a system of Earth Jurisprudence? Here are some practical steps.
Firstly, we need to acknowledge and challenge our anthropocentric worldview. This entails recognizing that our planet is not just a resource for human use, but a living entity with its own rights. This shift in thinking is fundamental because our attitudes and beliefs shape our actions. If we value our planet as a living being, we are more likely to act in ways that respect and protect it.
Secondly, we need to incorporate Earth Jurisprudence principles into our legal systems. This can be done by granting legal standing to nature, recognizing the rights of ecosystems to exist, thrive and evolve, and holding individuals and corporations accountable for violating these rights. Some countries, like Ecuador and New Zealand, have already made strides in this direction by recognizing the rights of rivers and forests in their legal systems.
Lastly, we need to cultivate an ethic of care and responsibility towards our planet. This involves fostering a deep sense of connection and respect for all life and making choices that are sustainable and life-affirming.
Earth Jurisprudence is not just a concept for environmentalists or legal scholars. It is a call to action for all of us. It is a recognition that our survival and well-being are intertwined with the health and well-being of our planet. And it is a commitment to act in ways that honor and protect the rights of all beings. As the famous environmentalist John Muir once said, "When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the Universe."