Ecological Egalitarianism and Human Diversity: A Deep Ecological Reassessment of Equality in the Philippine Context

Equality has long been a central concern in social and ecological discourse, particularly in nations such as the Philippines where cultural diversity and environmental degradation coexist. This study applies Arne Naess’ theory of Deep Ecology—which holds that all living and non-living entities possess intrinsic value—to the Philippine context, highlighting its potential to transform the nation’s understanding of equality. The research emphasizes that recognizing the interconnectedness of humanity and nature is vital for addressing both social inequality and ecological crisis. The study adopts a qualitative-philosophical approach to examine Naess’ concept of ecological egalitarianism, correlating it with Philippine cultural thought, indigenous belief systems, and environmental realities. Results reveal that embracing an inclusive ecological perspective promotes both social harmony and environmental stewardship. Consequently, the research calls for an integral form of equality encompassing human and non-human communities, aligning with indigenous worldviews and contemporary calls for sustainable development.