ABSTRACT

In this study, I offer a radically biocentric conception of ecosocialism, which is based upon essentially Marxist considerations. In my interpretation, this version of ecosocialism could be conceived as a logical consequence of Marx’s original theory of emancipation. For this reason, biocentric ecosocialism can also be understood as the “theory of radical emancipation”. Radical emancipation entails never treating other living beings (or their communities and populations) entirely as instrumental means. A crucial insight of this study is that the emancipation of humankind can never be separated from the emancipation of nature. This is a moderately ecocentric and moderately holistic theory which, in my interpretation, is capable of founding fundamental rights to all living beings. At a practical level, biocentric ecosocialism encompasses the principle of “dynamic equilibrium,” which relates to the maximization of potential for all living beings. Dynamic equilibrium has three subprinciples: (1) maximizing biodiversity and potential for the entire ecosystem of the planet, (2) minimizing the suffering of living beings, and (3) maximizing the potential of humans, as self-conscious living beings.

KEYWORDS: Marx; biocentric ecosocialism; Eco-Marxism; radical emancipation; environmental ethics

From: Capitalism Nature Socialism 2023 34 (2)

Editor: Wang Yi