The Influence of Green Groups on the Policy of the United States
Abstract: This research examines the relationship between environmental groups and the policies of the United States.
The United States political system has been historically anthropocen-tric, or human centered. Environmental groups
have been attempting to change this to a biocentric or ecocentric viewpoint, which includes the rights of animals and
the environment. These views are nature centered instead of human centered. This study will answer the question of
whether these groups have been effective at altering United States policies. This will be done through the study of
views offered by both sides. Also, a survey will be used to determine whether congressmen views are consistent with
environmentalist views. It will also present whether policy change has taken place, and if these changes have
remained intact through the study of past congressional decisions.
Research Problem
1. Research Question
Have environmental groups' strategies been successful at altering the policies of the United States?
Bob Dole, photo portrait.
United States
United States2. Rational for the Research
This research will help environmental groups to identify the effectiveness of their strategies. This is necessary for
these groups to effectively alter the policies of the United States, which is one of the largest polluters in the world.
If their strategies are ineffective then it will be necessary for them to reassess their methods. Without the use
productive methods these groups will not be able to protect the environment. Animals, plants and the entire ecosystem
must have the same protection as humans have. An ecocentric viewpoint establishes the right of the environment to have
legal standing. This gives people the ability to defend the right of an animal to exist with the same rights as
humans. Without this protection, people will be just as negatively affected as the environment. The...