ABSTRACT
Today, the precautionary principle is considered as at least an important principle of environmental law, and to some even a paramount principle. This chapter focuses on German philosopher Hans Jonas's work as it offers a striking vision of precaution and responsibility, which can be contrasted clearly with the principle of prudence. It is interesting to compare Jonas's imperative of responsibility with the Aristotelian-Thomistic virtue of prudence, as both are understood to be principles to guide human action. There are striking points of comparison between prudence in the Aristotelian-Thomistic view, and the precautionary principle analysed through the prism of Jonas's philosophy. To move the precautionary principle away from fear and to root it in contemplation and prudence, in a spirit of love, would slowly bring homo faber back to its former self, homo sapiens. It would bring technological development on the road to integral human development, with a view to achieving truthful environmental protection.
