The Papal Encyclical Laudato Si’

Author
Ann-Marie Kennedy, Nicholas J. C. Santos, S.J.
Region
Europe
North America
Topic
Ethics & Social Justice
Length
26 pages
Keywords
sustainability
Laudato Si'
ecosophy
New Ecological Paradigm
western dominant social paradigm
poverty
Roman Catholic Social Teaching
integrative justice model
Student Price
$0.00
Target Audience
Faculty/Researchers
Graduate Students
Undergraduate Students
Executive Education

This article seeks to reflect upon Laudato Si’, the papal encyclical on ecology and sustainable development, and uncover its apparent philosophical and practical approach to the environment. It begins with a discussion of paradigms of thought that outline the new ecological paradigm (NEP) suggested in the ecological literature, thereby helping to situate the ecosophy of Laudato Si’ within current thought. As we will show, Laudato Si’ differs from the NEP by linking the poor to our approach to sustainability and in its consideration of integral ecology. Specific principles for sustainability in business are then identified and strategic approaches are recommended, as are guidelines for an eco-justice approach to business and business education.