What is the difference between deep(TM) and shallow(TM) ecology

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12. What is the difference between 'deep' and 'shallow' ecology?

Ecology can be understood as a branch of biology that has extended into a political ideology, of nature as an interconnected whole1. The two branches of 'deep' and 'shallow' ecology were termed by Norwegian philosopher Arne Naess, and allow some distinction into the varied ecologist groups and views within contemporary society. 'Shallow' ecology, otherwise known as 'weak' ecology or environmentalism, supports an anthropocentric view and endorses that the natural world is something to be nurtured and preserved in order to support human life. 'Deep' ecology, on the other hand, is far more challenging in that it suggests that human life holds equal weighting with any other life form. The vast differences between these two threads can be analysed in a number of areas. Through economic growth, anthropocentric views, the different ways these can be seen, and the problems facing ecology as a whole, we are able to determine a clearer picture of not only deep and shallow threads of ecology, but in the political ideologies of nature as a whole.

Ecological ideas can be traced back to as far as the protest against the rise of