Abstract
The issues arising from climate change can be categorized as air, land, and water pollution, all of which threaten human survival. This study aimed to challenge the prevailing relationship between humans and the environment and to encourage a reconceptualization of the environment as a friend rather than a mere resource. It explored how Aristotle’s notion of friendship can be applied alongside artificial intelligence (AI) to promote environmental sustainability. The study argued that the relationship and interaction between humans and the environment require fundamental redefinition.
Aristotle’s conception of friendship is grounded in beneficence and goodness, fostering virtues such as mercy, kindness, generosity, and charity. Climate change, largely driven by human activities, has resulted in widespread environmental challenges, including species extinction, environmental degradation, carbon emissions, drought, health risks, and poverty. The study examined how AI can be harnessed to support the survival and sustainability of the environment, which it regards as humanity’s dependable and life-sustaining companion.
Using the method of critical analysis, the paper challenged the status quo of indiscriminate carbon emissions, arguing that current emission levels are unsustainable and pose a serious threat to the environment. It maintained that the adoption of AI technologies can significantly reduce humanity’s carbon footprint and contribute to climate sustainability. In particular, AI-powered innovations, including unmanned and rechargeable vehicles and other environmentally friendly technologies, can reduce carbon emissions and enhance environmental protection. Such developments, the paper argued, can strengthen a mutually beneficial relationship between human beings and the planet. It concluded that Aristotle’s notion of friendship provides a valuable ethical framework for fostering a more responsible and sustainable relationship between humans and the environment.
Keywords: Friendship, Goodness, Beneficence, Environment, Climate Change, Interaction
Authors:
Samuel Ubani
Department of Philosophy, Faculty of Arts and Sciences
University of South Florida, Florida, USA
samuelubani@usf.edu