Final answer:
The student's question about Western views relates to the historical Western focus on anthropocentric perspectives, attributed by Lynn White to cultural beliefs.
Engineering approaches to large-scale problems also reflect Western thought by considering a range of scientific, ethical, economic, and legal aspects. This underscores the influence of cultural systems on societal viewpoints.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's inquiry about Western views involves understanding the philosophical and cultural frames through which Western societies tend to view world matters. Historically, these views have often been influenced by an anthropocentric perspective, a concept that Lynn White attributes to the deep-rooted cultural beliefs in Western society, placing humans at the center of considerations.
When addressing large-scale problems, engineers and other professionals are encouraged to consider multiple parameters that involve not just the scientific aspects of a problem, but also its ethical, economic, and legal sides. These aspects ensure a holistic approach to problem-solving that takes into account the potential impact on society and the environment, aligning with Western contemplations that encompass a broader societal context.
The assertion that cultural systems play a crucial role in shaping perspectives underscores the importance of recognizing different systems' values and motives when analyzing societal viewpoints and determinants of thought. Both cultural and biophysical systems interactively contribute to shaping these viewpoints, highlighting the importance of a comprehensive approach to understanding societal issues and solutions.