Nature in Asian Traditions of Thought: Essays in Environmental Philosophy

by J. Baird Callicott (Editor)

"In a single volume, this brings to the forefront a diversity of perspectives concerning environmental philosophy. Informed scholars reflect upon our current understanding of biology, ecology, and non-western philosophical traditions in order to rethink the platform of the conservationist's cause. Each chapter reveals important insights and contains much original thinking as contributors explore new ideological resources for managing our global environment... must reading for all concerned persons who are actively involved in defending our natural resources."
—David Edward Shaner, Furman University.

Here, Western environmental philosophers and some of our most distinguished representatives of Asian and comparative philosophy critically consider what Asia has to offer.

The first section provides an ecological world view as a basis for comparison. Subsequent sections include chapters by leading contemporary scholars in Chinese, Japanese, Indian, and Buddhist thought that explore the Western perception of Asian traditions--the perception that Asian philosophy is a rich conceptual resource for contemporary environmental thinkers.

"It would serve as valuable reading for anyone who is interested in the environment and in exploring new and traditionally Asian approaches to this crucial subject."
—Shigenori Nagatomo, Temple University

Genres: Philosophy, Environment, Asia

358 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1989

About the author

J. Baird Callicott is an American philosopher whose work has been at the forefront of the new field of environmental philosophy and ethics. He is a University Distinguished Research Professor and a member of the Department of Philosophy and Religion Studies and the Institute of Applied Sciences at the University of North Texas. Callicott held the position of Professor of Philosophy and Natural Resources at the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point from 1969 to 1995, where he taught the world’s first course in environmental ethics in 1971. From 1994 to 2000, he served as Vice President then President of the International Society for Environmental Ethics. Other distinguished positions include visiting professor of philosophy at Yale University; the University of California, Santa Barbara; the University of Hawai’i; and the University of Florida.