Taylor, Respect For Nature, Ethics Inquiry

This article is on the introduction of Paul. W. Taylor' s biocentric environmental ethics theory. On the basis of analyze of his theory we expound view of the practical significance and theory' s defect and problem of biocentric environmental ethics theory. By reviewing his "inherent worth" conception and the denial of "the idea of the superiority of humans" , point out the defect of his basic conception and logical argument. This article is composed of four parts. The first part is about the history background of putting forward biocentrism theory. Emphasize the A. Schweitzer's "reverence for life" ethics and the development of P.W. Taylor's "respect for nature ".The second part is about introduction of Taylor's "the attitude of respect for nature" and "the biocentric outlook on nature". The third part introduces "the system of standards and rules " and "the priority principles". In the forth part ,1 put forward the defect of his basic conception and logical argument. Although his theory has its realistic importance: it alarms those shortsighted men who blindly stress the interest of man. Maybe we think his theory is a hypercorrection but we must admit it can sober man up.