noun

anthropocentrism

an-thruh-poh-SEN-triz-uhm

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Anthropocentrism (noun) means the view that places human beings at the centre of everything, valuing them above all other considerations. Example: “The book criticises anthropocentrism in how we treat the natural world.”

noun

The view that places human beings at the centre of everything, valuing them above all other considerations.

"The book criticises anthropocentrism in how we treat the natural world."

"Some philosophers argue that anthropocentrism has shaped centuries of environmental policy."

"Her essay questions the anthropocentrism behind traditional ideas of progress."

How to use anthropocentrism

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAnthropocentrism is putting humans first, above everything else.

When to use it

The word belongs to academic writing in philosophy, ethics and environmental studies.

Memory tip

Break the word down as anthropo- (human) plus -centrism (centred on) to remember its meaning.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

criticise anthropocentrism a shift away from anthropocentrism anthropocentrism in philosophy

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “anthropocentrism” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

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The book criticises _____ in how we treat the natural world.

Etymology

Anthropocentrism was formed in the early twentieth century from anthropocentric plus the suffix -ism, and can also be seen as anthropo- combined with -centrism.

Origin: English

Synonyms

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homocentricism humanocentrism

Rhymes for anthropocentrism

centrism ethnocentrism heliocentrism

See all rhymes for anthropocentrism →

Frequently asked questions

What does anthropocentrism mean?

It is the belief or outlook that puts human beings at the centre of everything, above other considerations.

When did the word anthropocentrism first appear?

It originated between 1905 and 1910, formed from anthropocentric and the suffix -ism.

What are synonyms for anthropocentrism?

Homocentricism and humanocentrism are used with the same meaning.

What is the meaning of anthropocentrism?

"anthropocentrism" (noun) means the view that places human beings at the centre of everything, valuing them above all other considerations.