Ecological Authoritarianism and Environmental Justice: Moral Progress and the Diversity of Cultures

The aim in this essay is to explore the connections between environmental justice and the respect for the diversity of cultures. To do this, I will draw from Arne Næss’s ecosophy and Deep Ecology. Although there is no systematic political theory in Næss, I will show that we can extract some critical political guidelines from his work, especially concerning the use of violence and the distancing from authoritarian positions (e.g., ecofascism). I will give special consideration to the concepts of structural and cultural violence, showing that these two kinds of violence are at the basis of different forms of ecoauthoritarianism. In this regard, to avoid the dangerous drift toward environmental authoritarianism, Næss’s ecosophy proposes respect for diversity and the idea that cultures should be understood as forms of life. I will argue that moral progress in socio-ecological concerns calls for respect for local cultures, as these constitute a significant part of the environment. I will also claim that the eradication and elimination of these forms of life may lead to more violence, which may mean preventing self-realization, freedom, and flourishing. To clarify this point, I will present the case of “Parque Pumalín” in Chile, which demonstrates how a rigid application of Deep Ecology principles at the political level can lead to conflicts, which can only be healed through respect for local cultures. I will conclude by suggesting that the practice of inculturation (i.e., considering and respecting local cultures as forms of life) may benefit and enrich Næss’s ecosophical and political point of view.