The Social Ecology - Essay Example

Social Ecology The passage criticizes the arguments of Holmes Rolston about conserving the environment and responding to population growth. The author, Robin Attfield contends that preserving the environment is right. However, he differs from the arguments of Holmes Rolston on the best way to preserve the ecosystem. Holmes holds that conserving ecosystems should take the first priority over the interest of humans (Attfield 292-297). Holmes feels that people should starve, raise limited children, and preserve vast lands for natural reserves.

In addition, human beings should not take the first priority over the natural ecosystem (Attfield 292). The arguments of Holmes favor natural ecosystems. However, the author of this passage holds that human and non-human populations are equally crucial. Attfield points out that people should create an environment that embraces nonhuman and human coexistence (296). Robin asserts that sustainable development does not conflict with efforts to protect the ecosystem. Robin Attfield agrees with Holmes on the aspects of preserving the wild species.

He contends that people should preserve the current wildlife and natural habitats. However, Robin differs from Holmes on the best ways to preserve the natural ecosystem. Attfield asserts that the human population should not move from their residential areas where there is peaceful coexistence with wildlife (297). The argument of the author contradicts the stand of Holmes that requires people to reside away from natural reserves (296). Holmes argues that the increasing human population poses a danger to the ecosystem.

He argues that parents should have two children and should do away with extra ones. However, Robin asserts that for every child there is an intrinsic value to life. The author argues that there are natural measures that control the human population such as death. Robin points out that overcrowding can have indirect effects on natural resources (Attfield 297).