Controversy: Are Strong Protections of Private Property Rights Necessary for Species Preservation?(Essay‪)‬

The protection of endangered species is a biblically mandated responsibility for Christians and Jews. The Scriptures declare that all land is owned first by God; humans are stewards who act on behalf of God and in obedience to His commandments. The Judeo-Christian tradition requires property owners to care for the land so that endangered species are protected and preserved. Therefore, Christians and Jews should not only support protection for endangered species and their habitat, but they should oppose the notion that public funds should compensate landowners who must use their property to further the good of creation and society. Observant Christians and Jews should have no question about the importance of protecting endangered species. The Scriptures are clear on this question. Orthodox Christian theology, as expressed through its saints and great theologians, declares care for the animals. Roman Catholic, mainline Protestant, Orthodox, and evangelical churches, plus the main branches of Judaism, all support care for animals, especially endangered species. Even medical science declares the value of saving species, and emphasizes that human research has barely surveyed 5 percent of botanicals for potential pharmacological benefits, this means their value for human well-being is scarcely appreciated.