Dialektika Deep Ecology dan Perspektif Kekristenan dalam Rekonstruksi Bioetika Lingkungan Kristen [The Dialectic of Deep Ecology and the Christian Perspective in the Reconstruction of Christian Environmental Bioethics]

Abstract

The contemporary ecological crisis reveals a profound rupture in the relationship between humanity and the natural world, largely rooted in anthropocentric paradigms that marginalize ecological justice. While certain theological responses remain confined within this framework—often aligned with “shallow ecology”—Arne Næss’ deep ecology offers a significant critique by affirming the intrinsic value of all living beings and promoting biospheric egalitarianism. However, when applied uncritically, this perspective risks misanthropic tendencies, social reductionism, and the neglect of human distinctiveness, as well as insufficient engagement with issues of gender justice and socio-political structures. This study employs a qualitative literature approach using critical hermeneutical and theological-philosophical dialectical analysis to examine deep ecology in dialogue with Christian theology. The study argues that deep ecology can be constructively refined within a Christian framework by reconstructing Christian environmental bioethics. This reconstruction not only affirms the intrinsic value of all creation but also maintains the ontological distinction between God, humanity, and nature grounded in the doctrine of imago Dei, while integrating insights from ecofeminism and bioregionalism. The findings demonstrate that a relational, theocentric, and responsible model of Christian environmental bioethics offers a more balanced ecological paradigm—one that avoids both anthropocentrism and antihumanism. This framework is concretely articulated through contextual pastoral and pedagogical praxis that incorporates gender justice, social responsibility, and bioregional awareness. This study contributes a systematic theological foundation for reconstructing Christian environmental ethics and provides practical directions for church engagement in addressing the ecological crisis.