Beyond Anthropocentrism: Ecohumanism as an Emerging Paradigm in the Human–Nature Relationship

Abstract

This study analyzes ecohumanism as an emerging paradigm for rethinking the human–nature relationship beyond the limitations of anthropocentrism. A qualitative approach was adopted through an integrative documentary review of peer-reviewed literature indexed in Scopus, Web of Science, SciELO, Redalyc, and Google Scholar, considering publications available up to March 30, 2024. The selected literature was examined through thematic content analysis and organized into five analytical categories: anthropocentrism and its foundations; biocentric and ecocentric alternatives; rights of nature; relational approaches to human–nature interactions; and ecohumanism as an integrative paradigm. The findings show that strong anthropocentrism has historically reinforced a hierarchical separation between humanity and nature, while biocentric, ecocentric, legal, and relational perspectives have progressively expanded moral and legal consideration toward non-human beings and ecosystems. However, these approaches do not fully resolve the question of human agency and responsibility. Ecohumanism emerges as a framework capable of integrating ecological embeddedness, relational responsibility, expanded moral consideration, and plural forms of knowledge. The study concludes that moving beyond anthropocentrism does not require eliminating the human subject, but rather redefining human agency within ecological interdependence, responsibility, reciprocity, and shared flourishing.