Biocentric

/ˌbaɪoʊˈsɛntrɪk/ adjective

Definition

Centered on or prioritizing life and living organisms, especially in environmental philosophy where nature has intrinsic value apart from human use.

Etymology

From bio- (life) + -centric (centered on, from Greek kentron 'center'). Emerged in 20th-century environmental ethics as a counterpoint to anthropocentrism.

Kelly Says

Biocentrism flips the script—instead of asking 'is this useful to humans?' it asks 'does this living thing have the right to exist for its own sake?'—it's revolutionized how we think about conservation.

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