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In 1972, the Norwegian philosopher Arne Naess proposed a new paradigm based on the holistic view of interconnected nature. He coined the term “deep ecology” to challenge humanity to ask fundamental questions about our place in nature. Rejecting anthropocentrism (human-centeredness) in favor of ecocentrism, Naess argued that all living beings have inherent value regardless of their utility to humans. At its philosophical core, deep ecology asserts that boundaries between self and other do not exist; all living things are interrelated parts of a larger whole. This perspective leads to what Naess called “self-realization”—a broader identity that encompasses all of nature. Deep ecology maintains that humans are part of nature rather than superior to or separate from it. Protecting nature becomes...