Intrinsic and utilitarian valuing on K'gari-Fraser Island: a philosophical exploration of the modern disjunction between ecological and cultural valuing

A critical disjunction between ecological and cultural valuing hinders effective environmental advocacy for K’gari (Fraser Island), despite growing recognition of nature’s intrinsic value in ecological discourse. The study applies an adapted Principle of Double Effect to analyze the destructive impact of motor vehicles on the island, revealing how modern cultural frameworks fail to integrate geocentric ecological values. This philosophical exploration identifies underlying cultural causes of the disjunction, offering a pathway to bridge ecological advocacy with broader cultural recognition. The research combines ecological and philosophical perspectives to propose strategies for more successful environmental protection efforts.

Vivian, E. V. C., & Schlacher, T. A. (2015). Intrinsic and utilitarian valuing on K’gari-Fraser Island: a philosophical exploration of the modern disjunction between ecological and cultural valuing. Australasian Journal of Environmental Management, 22(2), 149–162. https://doi.org/10.1080/14486563.2014.990936