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Bettis, Jodie (2007). In search of the ecocentric urbanite: Recognition of the intrinsic value of an urban wildlife area by South London residents [D836 Student Dissertation]. The Open University, Milton Keynes.
Abstract
With over half the population of the Earth living in urban areas, the value systems of urbanites are an important consideration if eco‐friendly urban development is to be acheived. Yet, some claim there is no widespread ecocentric orientation in Western culture and urbanisation distances humanity from nature, resulting in reduced value recognition. In an urban wildlife area in London, these claims are investigated using quantitative and qualitative methods. First, the New Ecological Paradigm scale assesses the worldview orientation of urban residents encountered. Next, semi‐structured interviews with the most ecocentric urbanites focus on intrinsic value recognition and the articulation of objective intrinsic value. Results indicate local wildlife trust volunteers are more ecocentric than visitors to the site, with those expressing the most environmental values also recognising the highest total number of intrinsic values. The majority of volunteers articulate at least one objective intrinsic value with many discussing aspects of biophilia, urbanophilia, and stakeholder engagement in urban planning policy. The study concludes that ecocentric urbanites exist and urbanophiles do not always suffer the hypothetically expected reduction in environmental value recognition. However, it is unclear whether or not the ecocentric orientation found in this study is a prerequisite or a result of the experience of volunteering, suggesting further research into pre‐ and post‐ volunteering ethical orientations ‐ perhaps with younger, less environmentally
protective participants ‐ is required.
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)
