Mains Practice Questions

Approach

• Start your answer with explaining the significance of economic development over environmental conservation.
• Explain the ethical issues in prioritizing development over environment
• Conclude suitably.

Introduction

Prioritizing economic development over environmental conservation creates a complex ethical dilemma. Economic development is essential for the growth and progress of society, but it often comes at a cost to the environment. Ignoring the environmental consequences of economic development can lead to long-term negative impacts on the environment, people, and future generations.

Body

• Environmental Degradation: Focusing solely on economic development often leads to the exploitation of natural resources, pollution, deforestation, and habitat destruction.
• Intergenerational Equity: Prioritizing economic development without considering the long-term impact on the environment can lead to an unfair distribution of resources between current and future generations. Future generations have a right to inherit a healthy and sustainable planet, and prioritizing short-term economic gains at the expense of the environment raises questions about intergenerational justice.
• Environmental Justice: Environmental degradation disproportionately affects marginalized communities and vulnerable populations who often bear the brunt of the negative consequences, such as pollution and resource depletion.
• Long-term Economic Viability: Ignoring environmental concerns can undermine long-term economic sustainability. Neglecting environmental conservation can lead to resource depletion, ecological imbalances, and increased vulnerability to natural disasters, ultimately threatening economic stability and development.

Conclusion

Prioritizing economic development over environmental conservation poses several ethical dilemmas that need to be carefully considered. Balancing economic growth with environmental protection is crucial to ensure sustainable development and a just and equitable future for all. Governments and corporations have a responsibility to protect the environment and promote sustainable development that benefits both current and future generations.