A discussion of value and self-realization: orienting religion in the methods introduced by Arne Naess and Bernard Lonergan as they apply to environmental ethical deliberation

Abstract

This work is a philosophical exploration of ethical decision-making. Bernard Lonergan’s transcendental method can be applied to how environmental decision-makers might develop normative foundations for ethical decision-making, including the role of religion in ethical deliberation. In this thesis, I explore the notions of ‘value’ and ‘self-realization’ as developed in the method of Arne Naess’ deep, long-range ecology; these notions have an implicit religious meaning. While Naess was at pains to avoid a repeat of the errors of the Western Judeo-Christian bifurcation of matter and spirit, his deep ecology is underlined by an implicitly religious foundation. The normative method for deep ecology offers a solution to how we might move from the present question of “How did we get here” to “Where do we go from here?” by intending self-realization. Achieving self-realization allows human beings to proceed into the future through beautiful action and knowledge of what is truly good and concrete.