UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Environmental ethics expands the circle of moral concern beyond present human interests. It argues that future generations, other species and ecosystems have intrinsic or at least significant moral value. Development choices should therefore respect ecological integrity and intergenerational justice rather than focusing solely on short-term human gains. The statement that future generations and non-human species deserve moral consideration captures this ethical perspective, making Option B correct.

Option A:
Option A is incorrect because treating nature as valuable only for immediate human use leads to unsustainable exploitation and ignores intrinsic or long-term values. This purely instrumental view is questioned by most environmental ethicists.

Option B:
Option B is correct since it acknowledges that development decisions should weigh impacts on those who cannot speak for themselves, including future people and non-human life. This outlook underpins principles like intergenerational equity and the precautionary approach.

Option C:
Option C is incorrect as it prioritises only current economic profits. Such a narrow focus neglects the rights of future generations, planetary boundaries and non-economic values like cultural and spiritual ties to nature.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect because environmental problems inevitably raise questions about justice, rights and responsibilities. Technical solutions must be guided by ethical frameworks, not separated from them.