Key Idea: Most marks in topic 1.1 come from one idea: the three environmental value systems. Learn them first, then the movement and how views change.
1. The three value systems (most marks)
- Ecocentric: nature matters for its own sake, so people should use less.
- Anthropocentric: people manage nature carefully, using laws, taxes and debate.
- Technocentric: new technology will solve environmental problems.
2. The environmental movement
- For each event, say what it showed people and what it changed.
- Silent Spring (1962), a book about pesticides, led to a US ban on DDT.
- The Chernobyl nuclear accident (1986) made many people fear nuclear power.
- The Montreal Protocol (1987), a world agreement, protected the ozone layer.
3. How views form and change
- A perspective is built from assumptions, values and beliefs.
- Surveys show what people say; check it against what they do.
- Views change through campaigns, and as new generations grow up.
Exam practice: try each question, then tap to reveal a model answer.
Coral reef protection [9] [9] To what extent is an ecocentric approach more effective than a technocentric approach in protecting a coral reef? An ecocentric approach protects nature for its own sake and reduces human pressure. A technocentric approach uses technology to solve environmental problems. Ecocentric measures include no-take marine reserves, where fishing is banned. These protect fish populations and reduce damage to the reef. Limiting tourism can also reduce damage from boats and visitors. However, restrictions need enforcement and may reduce local income. Technocentric measures include coral nurseries, which grow corals for damaged reefs. Research into heat-tolerant corals may help reefs survive warmer water. However, these measures can be expensive and cannot prevent all damage from warming, pollution or overfishing. Reserves reduce the causes of local damage, while nurseries help repair damage. Neither approach alone can protect a reef from every threat, especially global warming. An ecocentric approach is generally more effective for preventing local damage, but technology can support recovery. The strongest approach combines protection, restoration and action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Anthropocentrism [4] [4] Outline four features of anthropocentrism. Humans have a responsibility to manage nature carefully for present and future generations. Laws can protect the environment, for example by setting pollution limits. Taxes can discourage harmful activities, for example by making pollution more costly. Public debate helps people agree on how environmental resources should be managed.
Compare two approaches [3] [3] Distinguish between anthropocentric and technocentric approaches. Anthropocentrism emphasises responsible management of nature; technocentrism emphasises technology as the solution to environmental problems. Anthropocentric approaches manage resource use through laws and taxes; technocentric approaches use innovation to increase supply so economic growth can continue. Anthropocentric approaches involve public debate in decisions; technocentric approaches place greater trust in scientific and technical experts.
Environmental movement [7] [7] Explain how Silent Spring and Chernobyl influenced the environmental movement. Rachel Carson published Silent Spring in 1962. It explained how pesticides such as DDT harmed wildlife. The book showed that chemicals intended to kill pests could also harm other organisms and move through food chains. It increased public concern about pesticides and encouraged demands for stronger environmental protection. This pressure helped lead to restrictions on pesticide use, including the US ban on agricultural use of DDT. The Chernobyl nuclear accident in 1986 released radioactive material that spread across Europe. It showed that a nuclear accident could damage health and the environment far beyond the power station. Public concern increased pressure for stricter nuclear safety and, in some countries, opposition to nuclear power.
Key terms, one line each:
| Term | In one line |
|---|---|
| Perspective | how one person views and understands a situation |
| Argument | the reasons given for a perspective, or against another one |
| Assumption / value / belief | taken for granted / what matters / what is true |
| Values survey | statements a group scores, to find its perspectives |
| Worldview | a lens shared by a group, from culture, religion, philosophy, ideology, politics |
| Environmental value system | a model: inputs shape a perspective, which produces outputs |
| Ecocentric / anthropocentric / technocentric | nature first / people manage nature / technology fixes it |
Quick check: answer, then tap to see.
'Wildlife matters more than new homes.' Assumption, value or belief? Value: it says what matters.
Name four of the seven influences on a perspective. Any four of: sociocultural norms, scientific understanding, laws, religion, economic conditions, local and global events, lived experience.
London's Ultra Low Emission Zone charge: which approach? Anthropocentric: managing people through a charge.
Give two features of a technocentric view. Any two of: technology solves problems, experts decide, growth continues, optimism.
Name one influence on the environmental movement, with an example. e.g. Literature: Rachel Carson's Silent Spring.
To what extent is an ecocentric approach, as opposed to a technocentric approach, the most effective way to protect a coral reef?
Model answer plan
See the mark-by-mark plan — for / against / judgement, with marking guidance — in study mode.
Exam tips
- Use the guide's words: sociocultural norms, economic conditions, lived experience.
- Name whose perspective it is, and the root: 'Tom values wildlife'.
- Anthropocentric = responsible management, never 'humans dominate nature'.
- One point per paragraph, so every mark is easy to find.