Environmental perspectives
Eco-centric, Technocentric, Anthropocentric
Systems and models
Equilibrium
Resilience in Systems
100
What is an environmental value system (EVS)?
A worldview that shapes how individuals or societies perceive and respond to environmental issues.
100
What perspective believes that humans should live in harmony with nature and minimize their impact?
Eco-centric
100
What are the two main types of systems in environmental studies?
Open and Closed systems.
100
What is equilibrium in a natural system?
Equilibrium refers to a state where the inputs and outputs of a system are balanced, resulting in a stable system over time.
100
What does resilience mean in the context of ecosystems?
The ability of an ecosystem to recover from disturbances and maintain its essential functions and structure.
200
Which perspective sees humans as the managers of sustainable development?
Anthropocentric
200
In which perspective is the belief that human ingenuity and technology can solve environmental problems?
Technocentric
200
What is an example of a closed system in nature?
The Earth ( In terms of matter, not energy.)
200
What is the difference between stable and steady-state equilibrium?
Stable equilibrium means the system remains unchanged over time, while steady-state equilibrium involves small, dynamic changes, but overall stability is maintained.
200
Which ecosystems are likely to be more resilient: those with high or low biodiversity?
Ecosystems with high biodiversity are more resilient because they have more species to fill roles and recover from disruptions.
300
What is the main focus of an ecocentric approach when making environmental decisions?
It emphasizes the inherent worth of nature and advocates for minimal human interference in natural processes.
300
Which worldview believes in equal consideration for both humans and nature?
Eco-centric
300
What is the difference between an open and a closed system?
An open system exchanges both energy and matter with its surroundings, while a closed system exchanges only energy, not matter.
300
In environmental systems, how does feedback affect equilibrium?
Feedback mechanisms, such as positive or negative feedback, can either push a system away from or help maintain equilibrium.
300
How does resilience relate to an ecosystem’s tipping point?
Resilience helps an ecosystem resist reaching a tipping point, where it might shift to a completely new state.
400
Which perspective is most likely to support technological solutions to environmental problems?
Technocentric perspective.
400
Which perspective holds that economic growth is key to solving environmental issues?
Technocentric
400
How does a model help in understanding systems?
Models simplify complex systems to help predict changes and understand interactions within the system.
400
What is a tipping point in relation to equilibrium in an ecosystem?
A tipping point occurs when a system experiences so much stress or disturbance that it shifts from one equilibrium state to another.
400
Can human activities increase the resilience of ecosystems?
Yes, through practices like conservation, restoration, and reducing stressors like pollution, resilience can be supported.
500
How does the deep ecologist view human development?
Deep ecologists believe human development should be minimal to preserve nature’s rights and intrinsic value.
500
Who believes that humans are the dominant species and can sustainably manage the Earth for future generations?
Anthropocentric
500
What type of system is this?
Closed system.
500
How can human activities disrupt the equilibrium of an ecosystem?
Human activities, such as pollution, deforestation, and climate change, can introduce disturbances that shift ecosystems away from their natural equilibrium.
500
What role does resilience play in the recovery of ecosystems after disturbances?
Resilience allows ecosystems to absorb shocks and recover from disturbances, maintaining their functions and structure, thereby ensuring the continued provision of ecosystem services.