In pursuit of the biological imperative an intergenerational approach to biological justice

Abstract

This paper analyses the relationships between ethics and biology - particularly within the context of the Earth's degrading biosphere. We assess the manner in which humans have valued, and should value past and future human generations - from rational perspectives and as consequence of natural justice. We argue that life on Earth is more than likely unique within the universe, and that as a consequence of this, there is a duty for humans to exercise greater environmental stewardship. On the basis of this, the moral obligations that we have to future generations and ultimately future environments are debated, then confirmed. We conclude with a new biological imperative, in which it is asserted that in nature, justice is inter-temporal and must embrace all life found in the Earth's biosphere