Final answer:
William Baxter adopts an anthropocentric environmental ethic to prioritize human well-being over nature, arguing that moral responsibility to the natural world is justified by human interests and the need for self-preservation. Therefore, the correct option is b.
Step-by-step explanation:
William Baxter adopts an anthropocentric environmental ethic because he views humans and human interests as the central concern in ethical considerations about the environment. In his writings, such as in People or Penguins: The Case for Optimal Pollution, Baxter argues that damage to the environment is only morally relevant if it impacts human interests. He acknowledges that while the nonhuman world is not intrinsically valuable in itself, there is a moral obligation to it because human interests are intricately connected to the natural environment. This ethic believes in balancing the benefits of pollution against the harm caused by pollution to establish a level of optimal pollution that prioritizes human well-being.
Some philosophers have criticized this anthropocentric approach but also note that it can potentially foster an environmental ethic of care based on human interests in self-preservation. By appealing to shared human interests, such as the need for clean air and drinkable water, and the desire to preserve the Earth for future generations, they argue that moral obligations to the environment can be justified. This includes taking measures to reduce pollution, adopting sustainable practices, and preventing harm to the environment. Ultimately, Baxter's approach is a pragmatic one, recognizing that while humans have evolved to enjoy and protect nature, our ethical frameworks prioritize humans. This perspective is starkly opposed to non-anthropocentric views, which ascribe intrinsic value to the nonhuman world independent of human concerns.