Nature and self: A pluralistic exploration on the influences behind pro-environmental motivations and intentions

In the Anthropocene, our relationship with nature is often dichotomized to prioritizing ourselves (humans) or nature. Through a pluralistic lens, my thesis sought to provide a more holistic understanding of the human-nature relationship and how it may inform our motivations to care for nature. Study 1 found that one’s perceived relationship with nature stems from how nature affects oneself, while Study 2 uncovered affective and moral mechanisms informing one's willingness to sacrifice for nature. Overall, these findings highlight how the perceived threat of climate change towards oneself underscores one’s relationship with nature and motivations to protect it.