The Implications of Worldviews and Values on Sustainablity

Differing world views and values lead to different ideals and actions related to sustainability. There are many different ways one can categorize world views. For the sake of this argument, I prefer not to classify western world views as traditional, modern, post-modern and integrative as is done in Hedlund-de Witt's article (2014). I prefer rather to focus on neo-classical, eco-centric and ecological modernization world views.

Each view paired with an individual's or group's value system will lead to differing perceptions of sustainability and sustainable development. Due to these differing perspectives on what is sustainability or sustainable development, individuals, groups or organizations will use different means and methods in order to achieve sustainability. I do believe each world view has something to offer and that our mindsets likely do not fall strictly into one category but pull ideals from each. Some of the ideas offered up by each world view are simply that, ideas. Whereas other components may are actionable items on which we can make decisions in our lives and in our businesses. For example, an eco-centric world view may suggest that we are part of and totally connected with nature and that resources are finite. This mindset may influence one to act in a more respectful manner towards nature and minimize resource use but provides little guidance for the decision making process. On the other hand, the ecological modernization view provides more actionable items. For example, within this school of thought, it is acknowledged that resources can become exhausted thus proper management techniques and systems must be put into place. In terms of sustainable development and business, I believe it is best to try and adapt a worldview or blend of views that acknowledge the value of nature but does not keep one from acting in a way that may lead to improved lively hood.

References

Hedlund-de Witt, A. (2014). Rethinking Sustainable Development: Considering How Different Worldviews Envision “Development” and “Quality of Life”. Sustainability. 6.