What defines an Environmental Value System (EVS)?

An Environmental Value System (EVS) is a worldview or paradigm that shapes the way an individual or group perceives and evaluates environmental issues.

An Environmental Value System (EVS) is essentially a coherent set of values and beliefs about the world and how it works, which influences how a person or group of people perceive and interact with the environment. These systems are influenced by cultural, religious, economic and socio-political contexts, and can vary greatly between different individuals, societies and cultures.

EVSs are not static; they evolve and change over time in response to new experiences, information and insights. They can be influenced by a wide range of factors, including personal experiences, education, cultural background, societal values, and scientific understanding. For example, a person who grows up in a rural farming community may have a very different EVS to someone who grows up in a densely populated urban area.

EVSs can be broadly categorised into three types: ecocentric, anthropocentric and technocentric. Ecocentric value systems place the highest value on nature and believe in protecting the environment for its own sake, not just for human benefit. Anthropocentric value systems, on the other hand, view the environment primarily in terms of its usefulness to humans. Technocentric value systems believe that technological innovation can solve environmental problems and that economic growth can be sustained without harming the environment. To explore these categories further, you can review the types of EVS.

Understanding EVSs is crucial in the field of environmental science and policy, as they can greatly influence people's attitudes towards environmental issues and their willingness to take action to address them. For example, someone with an ecocentric EVS might be more likely to support conservation efforts, while someone with a technocentric EVS might be more inclined to support technological solutions to environmental problems.

In conclusion, an Environmental Value System (EVS) is a complex and dynamic system of values and beliefs that shapes how individuals and societies perceive and interact with the environment. Understanding these systems can provide valuable insights into people's attitudes and behaviours towards environmental issues, and can help to inform effective environmental policy and management strategies. For a deeper understanding of how EVSs develop and change, see the page on the evolution of EVS. For a foundational definition, you can visit the definition of EVS.

Study and Practice for Free

Trusted by 100,000+ Students Worldwide

Achieve Top Grades in your Exams with our Free Resources.

Practice Questions, Study Notes, and Past Exam Papers for all Subjects!

Need help from an expert?

4.93/5 based on509 reviews

The world’s top online tutoring provider trusted by students, parents, and schools globally.

Related ESS ib Answers

    Read All Answers
    Loading...