Environmental Ethics and Climate Change

This chapter provides readers with an introduction to the field of environmental ethics. To begin, I consider whether it's morally wrong to crush grasshoppers. In the process, I identify a moral principle that can be applied to the problem of climate change. With the help of that principle, I argue that most people are morally obligated to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, offset their remaining emissions, and advocate for climate-friendly policies and politicians. Why? Because failing to do these things is irresponsible.