CEPPA Talk (online) – Katie McShane (Colorado State University)

Title: Relational Value: Problems and Prospects

Abstract: The concept of “relational value” is widely used in the environmental ethics and policy literatures. In this talk, I will critically assess this use, considering what relational value might add to our existing value categories and what problems it might produce for our thinking about the value of the natural world. I first discuss the history of the concept: why early authors considered it a necessary addition to other value concepts and which claims about the natural environment they thought it was particularly well positioned to capture. I next discuss criticisms of the concept: that the need for it was demonstrated by misrepresenting other categories of value and that it distorts our thinking about them. Finally, I consider what would be a fruitful way forward given these concerns.  While the concept of relational value might be here to stay, we would do well to think more carefully about both its meaning and its use. 

Location: Online on teams and streamed in Edgecliffe G03