Publications and Research
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
12-4-2025
Abstract
This study argues that “place” is not simply physical, it is actualized by the relationship between human beings and the environments they inhabit. This research will spotlight various philosophical theories that pertain to where humans do human activities, the ever evolving containers of socialization and how the external environment informs self-concept. This research narrows in on Edward Relph’s phenomenology of “place” and Martin Heidegger's concept of dwelling. Both concepts are defined as foundational structures of human existence which create an interdependent relationship between humans and the places we inhabit. From that relationship stems a responsibility of caretaking. Through a conceptual analysis of philosophical and interdisciplinary scholarship, the research connects the concepts of place and dwelling to care ethics arguing that relational forms of caretaking are essential for the mutual flourishing of living beings and the places they inhabit. The study concludes that place has inextricable connections to being and our very existence (Relph, 2012). It is through principled relational action that humans thrive. It is easy to dismiss met needs, healthy self-concept and singular human thriving as minutia in the grand theme of implication but this directly contributes to the entirety of public health and wellness. Following this research, future studies can focus on the traditions, virtues and actions of care ethics leaders in an attempt at organized action towards the repair of vulnerable or poisoned places and the cessation of mutually detrimental human involvement in the environmental crisis.
Comments
This poster was presented at the 43rd Semi-Annual Dr. Janet Liou-Mark Honors & Undergraduate Research Poster Presentation, Dec. 4, 2025. Mentor: Prof. Prof. Laureen Park (Social Sciences).