The human actor in ecological economics: Philosophical approach and research perspectives

This paper contributes to the discussion about an adequate understanding of the human actor in ecological economics. It provides a philosophical approach by defining three fundamental relations of the human being: its relation (i) with itself, (ii) the community and (iii) nature. I reflect on previous discussions within ecological economics and argue that especially the relevance of the third sphere has not fully been recognized, yet. For this reason, I present the concept of homo ecologicus, which describes the relation of the human being with nature as an inherent principle of human excellence and is not based on mere self-interest or the striving for biological survival. Homo ecologicus is characterized by (a) sympathy with and respect for nature, (b) an orientation of its own creativity upon the creativity found in nature, and (c) a relation with nature, which is especially based on personal experience and encounter with it. I draw conclusions of the relevance of this concept for ecological economics and finally, I suggest a sensible integration of a variety of concepts of the human actor in order to explore the different relationships and characteristics of human existence, which are all important for the subject area and the aims of ecological economics.