The problem of defining nature first: A philosophical critique of environmental ethics

What is nature? Perhaps it is something of our own invention, perhaps not; but before we can begin researching the proper way to conserve it, we must come up with an accurate notion of what it is. Unless we examine the values we place on the environment and the resulting conflicts in which we trap ourselves, we will never be able to employ our definitions of nature, nor argue for our reactions toward it. Without a unified concept, perceptions of nature will create conflicting methodologies in terms of the environment—most of all, in terms of how we see it. Without a perception of the natural world, we aren't quite sure what it is we are trying to save. An accurate and focused perception of nature as a concept is the key. Until we understand the methodologies which influence our value placing systems, how we regard nature and how we develop ethics toward it will not be joined into a common consensus of practice.