The values of biological diversity: A perspective from China

Abstract

Following its signature and ratification of the Convention on Biological Diversity, China has made great progress in conserving biodiversity, and its role in global biodiversity conservation has gradually transformed from follower to key participant, and the country is becoming an active contributor. Given its long history, huge population and rapid industrialization, it is an extraordinary achievement to accomplish so much in such a relatively short period. The reason for this success partly lies in the country's social system, notably state ownership of land, and an omnipotent government. However, traditional Chinese culture, and the contemporary efforts of researchers in China also play a role. Against this background, the present paper provides an overview of the Chinese understanding of the values of biodiversity, and explains the interconnections between traditional philosophy, on the one hand, and contemporary Chinese thinking and action, on the other. The first section briefly traces the evolution of scholarly exploration of the values of biodiversity, outlines the latter's contribution, and examines indicator systems used to evaluate these values. The second section examines the core ideas found in traditional philosophy, which provide contemporary Chinese society with the conceptual resources it needs to fully understand the values of biodiversity. The last section explores the main mechanisms through which traditional philosophy influences contemporary thinking and behavior regarding environmental protection (including biodiversity conservation).