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Green Philosophy

The Metaphysics of Nature

Rich Grego compares John Dewey’s and Martin Heidegger’s views on ecology.

Martin Heidegger and John Dewey both flourished in the first part of the 20th century, but the two thinkers had very different concerns about the environment. We ’ll examine how their respective concepts of nature, human nature and philosophy of science might apply to current environmental thought and policy. It argues that Heidegger’s latter thought, with its rejection of modern science, technology and commercialism, as well as its quasi-mystical concepts like ‘Being’ is generally less useful for environmental policy than Dewey’s philosophy, which celebrates these institutions as a triumph of both natural and human potentials. However I will also argue that while the spirit of Dewey’s philosophy might be better suited to short-term strategies regarding environmental regulations, laws, and improved technologies, the essential message of Heidegger ’s philosophy may be what is needed for ensuring a long-term commitment to sustainable environmental protection.

Heidegger, Dewy and Environmental Policy

Concern over global warming and other environmental problems has garnered a great deal of public attention recently.

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