Item Detail
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17772
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0
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0
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English
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A Latter-day Saint Environmental Ethic
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Fort Collins, Colorado
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Colorado State University
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Master's thesis
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The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints supports a strong environmental ethic. This is developed (1) in teaching regarding the intrinsic value of the "soul," a concept applied not only to humans but to animals, plants, and all living beings (recalling both Biblical and Mormon texts and Aristotle's concept of soul). All creation can express a kind of joy in life. (2) Teachings regarding stewardship show that God expects humans to be stewards of the Earth, a concept defended against criticisms. The principle of sacrifice emphasizes human interdependency and selfless sacrifice. (3) Latter-day saints work for a promised "Zion," a vision of harmony and flourishing on Earth.