Che cosa significa “Geoetica”? Dentro le parole, il senso dell’attività del geologo

Abstract

Geoethics is born with the intent to highlight the social role of Geosciences, to encourage a critical analysis on the use of natural resources, to promote the enhancement and protection of the Geosphere, the correct information on risks, the involvement of the scientific community in the idea of a common and shared “geological” heritage. But what is the deep meaning of the word “geoethics”, its origins, its use? On the one hand Geoethics can be defined as the investigation and reflection on the behaviour of men towards the Geosphere, on the other hand as the analysis of the relationship between the geologist who acts and his own action, with clear implications of responsibility both in scientific research and in professional practice. Starting from the etymology of the words, we can try to grasp the meaning of the geologist’s activity.