MART IN HEIDEGGER’S ENVIRONMENTAL PHILOSOPHY

Abstract

Martin Heidegger is widely recognised for his contributions to metaphysics and existentialism, yet his philosophy also offers valuable insights into environmental philosophy. While he did not develop a formal environmental ethic, his critique of Western metaphysics and technology provides a foundation for rethinking humanity’s relationship with nature. Rather than adopting a normative ethical approach, Heidegger examines the human-nature relationship from an ontological perspective, arguing that the environmental crisis stems from a metaphysical framework that reduces nature to a mere resource for human exploitation. His concept of techne as a mode of revealing, along with his later reflections on dwelling and releasement, offers an alternative framework for understanding sustainability beyond instrumental rationality. This study employs textual analysis to critically examine Heidegger’s environmental philosophy and its relevance to traditional environmental ethics. By highlighting Heidegger’s critique of anthropocentrism and technological nihilism, the research explores how his thought contributes to contemporary environmental discourse. Despite concerns regarding his lack of explicit ethical guidance and potential ecofascist interpretations, Heidegger’s work remains influential in radical ecology and deep environmental thought. This study ultimately argues that Heidegger’s ontology provides a meaningful foundation for rethinking human embeddedness in the natural world and developing a more sustainable environmental philosophy.