The Nature and Perspectives of Environmental Ethics with an Emphasis on the Islamic View

Today, the severity of environmental crises has reached a level that threatens the survival of humans and other living beings on Earth. Consequently, the theoretical foundations that determine human interaction with nature, including ethics, have drawn significant attention from environmental enthusiasts, such that the formulation of an appropriate environmental ethics theory is considered essential for the protection and sustainable use of the environment. Prevailing environmental ethics theories are based on a spectrum of intrinsic value foundations, with anthropocentrism at one end and ecocentrism at the other. However, in recent years, the search for a suitable approach to human-environment interaction and solutions to environmental crises has increasingly turned to religious and spiritual foundations. This paper aims to explore perspectives on environmental ethics by addressing two fundamental ethical questions: "What is the locus of intrinsic value?" and "What is the criterion for ethical action?" It further argues why a theocentric approach to environmental ethics provides a more comprehensive framework for environmental conservation. Additionally, the study introduces the concept of "self-ecology" as a theocentric approach to environmental ethics. Inspired by Islamic anthropology and emphasizing the spiritual nature of the human soul, this approach promotes a harmonious relationship between humans and the environment based on self-awareness and self-preservation.