This paper assignment asks you first to study closely the Week 4 online lesson that deals with the Romantic
view of Nature, the differences between the Romantic and Enlightenment views of Nature, the origins of
Western civilization’s “nature-disdain,” and Aldo Leopold’s “land ethic.” Then write a brief essay (only two
full double-spaced pages or less) that responds to the following assignment:
In your own words, explain why Aldo Leopold’s “land ethic” can be viewed as an “off-shoot” (or
“extension”) of Romanticism. What are the basic connections between his environmental approach and
the Romantic view of Nature? Then explain why his theory would be a valuable one to promote in our
current battle against human-caused climate change. In other words, what is it about Leopold’s theory or
approach that makes it especially useful in deciding to take actions that will prevent further devastation
caused by climate change?
Sample Solution