PUB TYPE Speeches/Conference Papers (150) Reports

Empirical research has consistently shown human values to be significantly related to both attitudes and behaviors. This paper unites the value theories of several researchers into an explanation of environmental concern, and provides some preliminary data to support the model. Attitudes toward environmental choices should be determined by underlying value orientations. The universalism value type, which takes a primary place within this model, includes the social values of equality, a world of beauty, a world at peace, social justice, unity with nature, and protecting the environment. Individuals who place a high priority on these universalism values should hold pro-environmentalism attitudes and advocate pro- environmentalism activities. The value types of benevolence and power take a secondary position. This study utilized written survey methodology to assess the relationships between values, global consciousness, and environmental concern. The results of this study can be interpreted in the context of three levels of environmentalism: (1) a biospheric orientation with a concern for the welfare of nonhuman species and the entire biosphere; (2) a concern for the welfare of other human beings; and (3) egotism or self-interest. If environmental concern at the biospheric orientation level exists, the universalism values would need to be overwhelmingly strong. Results of this study support the thesis that the value types of universalism, benevolence, and power are predictive and important in understanding environmental concern and so can be of use to teachers in developing environments ' concern in their students as part of a social studies curriv.u1um. Three illustrative table