Abstract
This article addresses the central moral challenge of twenty-first-century societies: identifying a core principle to guide the hierarchy of values in the context of environmental and human rights conflicts. It examines the ontological questions underlying these debates, such as the explanation of the world and the basis for action, emphasizing the human tendency to project values through either ecocentric or anthropocentric perspectives. This essay argues that resolving the tension between these two worldviews requires moving beyond their dichotomy by incorporating a third vertical axis inspired by the concept of summum bonum from classical philosophy. By revisiting this fundamental principle, this study proposes a framework for harmonizing humanity's relationship with its environment while respecting the dignity of all beings.