Abstract
The realization of sustainable development opens space for ethical, economic, social, and environmental discussions. Significant environmental degeneration and serious problems of social exclusion require the reconfiguration of the relation between State, market, and nature. Based on Lévinas’ studies on ethics, this research addresses the recognition of the human Other and the nature Other as a premise for constructing a natural contract that deems the human Ego as part of the environment, rather than just its dominator. This study aims to show that it is possible to respond to the need to reconfigure the relationship between the State, society, nature, and the market. Conduct for sustainable development are yet to recognize and consider the biota in its entirety and importance. The critical deductive method and bibliographic research were used. It was concluded that it will be possible to meet the premises of sustainability and recognize the environment as a relevant Other from the perspective of alterity.
Keywords:
alterity; ethics; environment; sustainable development