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Toward a theory of ecosystem well-being

Author

Listed:
  • Marc Fleurbaey

    (Paris School of Economics)

  • Christy Leppanen

    (University of Tennessee
    FDA)

Abstract

Can the main methods of social welfare analysis be extended to cover multiple species? Following a non-anthropocentric approach, we examine the pros and cons of various objective and subjective methods of well-being comparisons across species. We argue against normalizing by specific capacities but in favor of taking account of individual preferences and specializations. While many conceptual and practical difficulties remain, it appears possible to develop methods for the assessment of collective well-being of multi-species communities and ecosystems.

Suggested Citation

  • Marc Fleurbaey & Christy Leppanen, 2021. "Toward a theory of ecosystem well-being," Journal of Bioeconomics, Springer, vol. 23(3), pages 257-295, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:jbioec:v:23:y:2021:i:3:d:10.1007_s10818-021-09315-x
    DOI: 10.1007/s10818-021-09315-x
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Marc Fleurbaey & Peter Hammond, 2004. "Interpersonally comparable utility," Post-Print hal-00247066, HAL.
    2. Martha C. Nussbaum, 2018. "Working with and for Animals: Getting the Theoretical Framework Right," Journal of Human Development and Capabilities, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 19(1), pages 2-18, January.
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    4. Romain Espinosa & Nicolas Treich, 2021. "Animal welfare: antispeciesism, veganism and a “life worth living”," Social Choice and Welfare, Springer;The Society for Social Choice and Welfare, vol. 56(3), pages 531-548, April.
    5. Blackorby, Charles & Donaldson, David, 1992. "Pigs and Guinea Pigs: A Note on the Ethics of Animal Exploitation," Economic Journal, Royal Economic Society, vol. 102(415), pages 1345-1369, November.
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    Cited by:

    1. Espinosa, Romain & Treich, Nicolas, 2024. "Animal welfare as a public good," Ecological Economics, Elsevier, vol. 216(C).

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    More about this item

    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • D63 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - Equity, Justice, Inequality, and Other Normative Criteria and Measurement
    • D71 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Social Choice; Clubs; Committees; Associations

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