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Flip to reveal answersWhat is an environmental value system (EVS)?
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All 22 Flashcards — EVS
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Question
What is an environmental value system (EVS)?
Answer
A worldview about the relationship between humans and the natural world that shapes environmental decisions.
💡 Hint
Give a one-sentence definition.
Question
What is the EVS “inputs → processes → outputs” idea?
Answer
Inputs are influences, processes are how you interpret them (values/beliefs), and outputs are the decisions/actions you take.
💡 Hint
Think: influences → thinking → actions.
Question
Give two examples of EVS inputs.
Answer
Examples: cultural traditions, media/social media, scientific information, economic conditions, religion, direct experiences.
💡 Hint
Inputs = what shapes your views.
Question
What are EVS processes?
Answer
How you interpret inputs: evaluating evidence, emotions, moral judgements, and identity/values.
💡 Hint
Processes = beliefs + reasoning.
Question
Give two examples of EVS outputs.
Answer
Examples: supporting/opposing laws, lifestyle choices (diet/energy/travel), campaigning/volunteering, political choices.
💡 Hint
Outputs = what you do.
Question
Name the three main EVS categories.
Answer
Ecocentric, anthropocentric, technocentric.
💡 Hint
Three “-centric” types.
Question
Ecocentric = ?
Answer
Nature-centred: protect ecosystems and live in balance with the environment.
💡 Hint
Nature first.
Question
Anthropocentric = ?
Answer
Human-centred: manage nature responsibly to meet human needs.
💡 Hint
Humans at the centre.
Question
Technocentric = ?
Answer
Technology-centred: innovation and technology can solve environmental problems.
💡 Hint
Tech will fix it.
Question
What is the big idea of an ecocentric worldview?
Answer
Put nature first. Protect ecosystems even if humans must change how they live.
💡 Hint
Nature has priority.
Question
Why do ecocentrics prefer prevention?
Answer
They think overuse of resources causes problems, so reducing use and waste stops damage before it happens.
💡 Hint
Prevent > fix later.
Question
Define “intrinsic value of nature”.
Answer
Nature is valuable simply because it exists, not because humans use it.
💡 Hint
Value without human use.
Question
Give two ecocentric solutions.
Answer
Examples: protecting forests/rivers, using fewer resources, reducing waste, sustainable farming, recycling/reusing.
💡 Hint
Low-impact living.
Question
Why might ecocentrics reject building a dam?
Answer
Because it floods habitats, blocks fish migration, alters river flow, reduces water quality, and can destroy culturally important land.
💡 Hint
Think: ecosystem disruption.
Question
What is the big idea of an anthropocentric worldview?
Answer
Humans are central. Nature matters mainly because it supports human life and development, so it should be managed responsibly.
💡 Hint
Human-centred management.
Question
How do anthropocentrics usually solve environmental problems?
Answer
Through practical management: laws and regulations, planning, education, incentives (e.g. taxes), and international agreements.
💡 Hint
Policy + balance.
Question
Forest management example (anthropocentric): what would they do?
Answer
Allow controlled logging, require replanting, set limits, and fine illegal cutting to protect forests while supporting the economy.
💡 Hint
Not total ban.
Question
One limitation of anthropocentrism?
Answer
It may still allow environmental damage if it benefits humans, and may protect ecosystems less if they have no direct human use.
💡 Hint
Human benefit can dominate.
Question
What is the big idea of a technocentric worldview?
Answer
Trust technology and innovation to solve environmental problems while allowing continued economic growth.
💡 Hint
Tech + growth.
Question
What do technocentrics focus on more: innovation or reducing consumption?
Answer
Innovation. They prefer smarter, cleaner technology rather than making people use much less.
💡 Hint
Innovation > lifestyle cuts.
Question
Give three examples of technocentric solutions.
Answer
Examples: renewable energy, electric vehicles, carbon capture, smart grids/LEDs, geoengineering.
💡 Hint
Think “high-tech fixes”.
Question
Why can technocentric solutions have limitations?
Answer
They can ignore overconsumption, create new problems (e-waste/mining), be expensive, and give a false sense that tech will fix everything.
💡 Hint
Tech can create trade-offs.
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Topic 1.1 hub
Environmental systems
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