IB Environmental systems and societies 1.1 Perspectives Key Definitions

Anthropocentrism places human needs at the centre of decision-making but supports managing natural systems for long-term sustainability.

Ecocentrism is a philosophy that prioritizes the intrinsic value of nature and advocates for minimal human impact on the environment.

An environmental value system (EVS) is a framework that shapes how individuals or groups perceive and respond to environmental issues.

Intrinsic value refers to the worth of something independent of its usefulness to humans.

A perspective is a point of view that reflects how an individual perceives and understands the world, based on their beliefs, values, and lived experiences.

Sustainable development refers to meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Technocentrism is a worldview that sees technology and human innovation as the primary solutions to environmental problems.

A tipping point is the minimum change in a system that destabilizes it and shifts the regime to a new equilibrium or stable state.

UNFCCC is the foundational global treaty established in 1992 to coordinate international climate action.

Values are qualities, principles, or standards that individuals and communities consider important in life.

Values surveys are structured questionnaires designed to explore the beliefs, priorities, and attitudes of individuals or groups.

A worldview is a shared framework of beliefs, values, and assumptions that shapes how a group of people understands and interacts with the world.