Rights of nature: reflections on possible axiological fundamentals

Abstract

This article proposes to discuss the axiological foundation of an ecological-centric paradigm. First, it exposes an axiological analysis of the rationales that drive the anthropocentric model, namely, the economist and the scientific rationales, which consider that nature is a mere object, a simple instrument, to promote the interests of human beings, or more properly, of some humans. The cruel effects of this absolute anthropocentric view are revealed, as they are materialized in natural disasters of all kinds, which affect the quality of life and the very existence of human beings, denouncing, thus, its paradigmatic bankruptcy. Going forward, the article draws the characteristics of the ecological-centric paradigm, focusing especially on building a set of values to support it, which will be developed through philosophical reflections on an intrinsic value to nature. The intrinsic value of nature is approached through revisiting the very concept of reason, which is reconstructed with stanchion in the Andean ethics. In conclusion, the article traces the implications of a new ethic of nature on relations between men and between man and nature.