Philosophy
The Political Philosophy of Environmental Justice and Intergenerational Equity
Quick fact
The concept of intergenerational equity has been enshrined in legal instruments, such as the 1992 Rio Declaration, which states that the right to development must be fulfilled equitably to meet the needs of present and future generations. Yet, despite this, greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise, posing an ethical paradox.
Why this is interesting
We inherit the Earth from our parents, but we also borrow it from our children. Why should we care about people who don't even exist yet?