Anthropocentrism in Oryx and Crake by Margaret Atwood

Abstract

This thesis examines Margaret Atwood's Oryx and Crake's anthropocentrism. Environmental issues are directly tied to people, because of anthropocentrism. According to this viewpoint, humans are far more valuable than any other creature. They are the intrinsic value, making them the focal point of all acts. In exchange, other things outside humans are valued if they can benefit humans. This study tries to show how technological advancements and human greed are what lead to environmental problems inside the novel and highlight the author's critical position. Along with qualitative type research, Stuart Hall's Theory of Representation (1997) and Greg Garrard's Theory of Ecocriticism (2004) are utilized to study the actions and behaviors of the characters in the novel. The discursive method put forward by Michel Foucault is an effective means of comprehending meaning through conversation. The research results show that human greediness is the main force of anthropocentrism and environmental problems in the novel. Anthropocentrism is a collection of beliefs and practices that put people above all other creatures. It is a conviction that people are at the center of everything. Environmental problems are caused by human greed, and humans needs for more. One of the elements that contributes to anthropocentrism is ignorance about the current state of nature. The issue of pollution has grown considerably. An important contributor to both human and animal illness is environmental pollution. It highlights the role that pollution will play in the global ecological collapse in the future. Humans claim credit for the condition while placing the blame on nature. For example, humans are credited for producing animal hybrids and animal mutations to ease their lives. The invention of BlyssPluss Pills heralds the end of the world and the extinction of humanity.