Abstract

Today, the commodification of the environment by humans is on the rise, which has led to severe environmental degradation and crises. This exploitation by humans is informed by their misconception of the environment as inferior to them and merely a resource for human well-being and prosperity. The commodification of the environment as experienced over time is built on an anthropocentric consciousness; the view of humans being at the center of the universe, whereby the environment is considered a commodity. This perspective toward the environment manifests through; excessive extraction, pollution, and all forms of degradation, which continue to have dire consequences for humans and other forms of life. We have witnessed the pollution of seas whose consequences has severely impacted aquatic life, deforestation has exposed wildlife to abuse, human violence, and various injustices, among many others. These issues remain significant, considering their consequences, not only on the environment, animals, aquatic life, and land, but also on human well-being. In response, this chapter proposes the Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam principle; an Indian philosophical principle that considers the Earth as one large family, which argues for mutual interaction and relationships based on familyhood, encouraging humans to abandon their anthropocentric consciousness for a principle that promotes fair and mutual interaction between humans and all other life forms. Using the methods of critical analysis and conceptual clarification, this chapter argues that if humans embrace the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the environment will be freed from all forms of human abuse, violence, and degradation, making the Earth more conducive and livable.