Analysis On Rolston's Nature Value Theory

Nature value is one of the most arguable theories on environmental ethics. Different comprehension and definition of this concept directly determines the foundation of environmental ethics. American expert Holmes Rolston III who establishes nature value theory devotes to the environmental ethics. He begins with the value theory and then sets up a new environmental ethical system which regards intrinsic value of nature as its core. His theory offers a new moral standard for protecting our environment. To comprehend this theory systematically and completely is contributive to make an environmental protection theory which is suitable for our country and to support the development of our environmental ethical theory. The paper focuses on Rolston's nature value theory, trying to analyze it carefully in order to grasp this environmental ethical thought completely and identify Rolston's significant status in environmental ethics.First of all, this text starts with the theoretical origin of Rolston's nature value theory from academic development and cultural background aspects. Secondly, the article clarifies the basic theories of Rolston's nature value systematically, probes the characteristic of his theoretical development and summarizes the connotation of his thought on the whole. Thirdly, on the basic of comprehension to the new theoretical paradigm, deducing moral from value, the article analyzes feasibility and essentiality of Rolston's nature value in enlaring category of the obligation. Finally, by comparing with other non- human centralism environmental ethical thoughts, the article explicates and probes the theoretical value of Rolston's nature value as well as some realistic significance it may contain for the social and economic sustainable development of our country.Rolston's nature value theory breaks the old traditional philosophical paradigm and expresses a new one. It breaks the traditional ideas separating reality from value and educes moral from value. He establishes the notion of systemic value, breaks the subjective or objective dichotomy of value, and founds an eco-holistic worldview. He applies ecological philosophy to practice, offering some theoretical supports for the environmental protection movements and sustainable development all over the world.