When I contemplate all the problems in the world -- including environmental degradation, racism, sexism, poverty and terrorism among many others -- it can be so overwhelming that I feel powerless to make a substantial difference. I even think to myself that my small efforts will not result in enough of a significant contribution to compel a change in my personal behavior.
That perspective, however, is wrong. The most worthwhile and lasting reforms begin with the individual. Michael Foucault, postmodern philosopher and one of the greatest minds in the 20th century, stated in his book "The History of Sexuality" that power at the micro level (the individual or small groups) creates the foundation for macro level (aggregate, wide scale) policy. Each part of the system is necessary to the continuation of that system. Like dominoes, one piece could influence the change in the entire structure. Thus, my seemingly meaningless efforts might affect not only my community but the entire world.
One issue that needs significant individual contribution involves the environment. Changes are needed to preserve our local community as well as the world's environmental stability. Supporting the local environment (local could even mean as small as your household) will result in less damage to the entire system. Thus, if we can focus on making Muncie, Ball State, Marsh Street or even your particular apartment more environmentally sound, then we can tackle larger scale concerns.
How can we support the environment? First of all, Muncie is covered with litter. Through your trash away! Whether it is beer bottles, cigarette butts or parking receipts, stop leaving them on the ground and find a nearby recycling bin. We should also take part in other little changes in behavior like shorter showers, conserving electricity and not over indulging in our materialistic desires.
The quality of our environment will increase when we take responsibility for our own actions. What might be called an environmental ethic will provide a framework to support ecological stability. The Bradford Woods Project at Indiana University defines environmental ethic as "a guiding moral principle which extends into many areas including how people treat plants, animals, and the environment around them. It shows respect for the living and non-living things in the community." Thus, we should take a holistic responsibility for our community rather than just serving our unquenching desire to consume.
If we adopt an environmental ethic at an individual level, then our actions can solve the problems environmental regulations fail to do at the macro level. Richard Steward, professor of Law at New York University, in an article for the Capital University Law Review, stated that environmental regulations fail for a number of reasons. First, the rigid standards do not take into account the interdependence and complexity of the environmental ecosystem. In addition, there are not enough bureaucratic accountability to ensure environmental standards will work.
An environmental ethic will put the ball into our court and not force the government or industry to take control. Have respect for yourself, others and the world around you. This needs to be done, even though we might not see all the effects global warming might cause. However, they are just around the corner if we do not change now. Do your part. Let's ensure that future generations have the ability to appreciate this beautiful world as we do today.
Write to Donny at djpeters@bsu.edu
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