European Geosciences Union, General Assembly 2013 Vienna Austria 12 April 2013
Session NH9.8 Convener: Silvia Peppoloni
12 summaries of presentations made at the above conference in April, 2013.
6 papers dealing with the Geoethical Implications in the L'Aquila earthquake Case in Italy, and 6 papers dealing with Hazards Mitigation: a Geoethical Perspective
Mankind is both an active part within Nature, as a factor which conditions Nature itself, and a passive element towards Nature, since it is exposed and forced to coexist with natural phenomena. This involves a risk for human life, for productive activities and artistic and historical heritage. So it has become more and more urgent to follow a respectful and pragmatic behavior towards the Geosphere. Geoethics, born as a meeting point of Geology, Sociology and Philosophy, deals with theoretical and practical aspects of decisions concerning the risk management and mitigation of geohazards, the use of geo-resources and solutions to geo-environmental problems. So it could turn out to be an effective tool for influencing the awareness of society about these problems all over the world, combining ethical and cultural values with technical and economic considerations.
The socio-cultural role played by geoscientists is essential. Geoscientists can promote a culture, sensitive to the environment, correct information on natural risks, a more constructive relationship amongst the scientific community, mass media, civil society and policy-makers. The commitment of Geoscientists in communication and education at different levels can contribute to replace the culture of emergency with the more effective culture of prevention. Geoscientists have scientific and technical knowledge and this implies their responsibility to act in an ethical way, turning this knowledge into ethical action, by taking into account the common good and the public use.
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