The Economic Interconnectedness of Environmental Ethics in Light of Frankl’s Triadic Anthropology: Body, Psyche, and Spirit as the Foundation of Human Responsibility

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Authors: Zuzana Džbánková, Pavel Sirůček, Jaroslav Šetek
Cited by: 0

Abstract

This text frames environmental ethics as an interdisciplinary lens connecting ecology, economics, and philosophical anthropology via Viktor E. Frankl’s triadic model of human existence ú somatic, psychological, and spiritual. It argues that the ecological crisis is primarily ethical, stemming from eroded values, loss of meaning, and weakened moral responsibility. Integrating ethical responsibility with economic action creates a direct pathway from human freedom and purpose to measurable sustainable outcomes, reducing negative externalities and embedding long-term values in decision-making. The spiritual dimension (noös) operationalizes autonomous, value-driven behavior, while the concept of “economic belonging” analytically links freedom, moral accountability, and economic practice. Together, these elements provide a structured framework for translating ethical reflection into actionable, measurable strategies that align environmental sustainability with social and economic objectives . Keywords: triadic anthropology, environmental externalities, spiritual dimension, sustainable economic behavior

Fields of Study & Subjects

Environmental Philosophy and Ethics Sustainable Development and Environmental Management Religion Ecology and Ethics

Publication details

Journal / source
European Journal of Sustainable Development
Volume
15
Issue
1
Pages
1101–1101
Publication date
1 February 2026