ABSTRACT
Introduction In this essay, I contend philosophers have been asking the wrong questions about the value of biodiversity. By and large, they have concerned themselves with the intrinsic value of nonhuman organisms, species, ecosystems, and biodiversity more generally. First, I consider the most important argument, the ‘‘Argument from Teleology,’’ for claiming they have intrinsic value. I argue that it fails. Second, I argue that even if it succeeds, psychological studies suggest that claims of intrinsic value are comparatively poor motivators of pro-environmental behavior. Third, I claim that focusing on ecosystem services offers a better chance of protecting biodiversity.
