Human Nature?

Throughout this class, many of the writers portrayed Humans and Nature as a dichotomy. They saw humans and nature as separate entities. In some cases, such as the photographer taking pictures of the taxidermied animals, portrayed the relationship between human objects and animals as almost ironic. In class, when we viewed these images, we laughed when we saw the animals interacting with human objects. We laughed at the coyote in the yard, or the bear by the pool.

I disagree with that manner of thinking. Humans are a product and part of nature. Our technology is, in a way, a type of evolution. We evolved into bipedal animals, with opposable thumbs and an over-sized head and brain, in lieu of claws and sharp teeth. With those thumbs, we gripped rocks, spears, bows, swords, guns, pens, hammers, saws, and Hypodermic Needles. We have colonized every part of the world, and exterminated diseases for the betterment of our species.

However, if we look at other types of animals with extreme adaptations, we aren't alone. Take some types insects as an example. Ants and Termites have evolved to a hive situation, where enormous families of genetically identical individuals work and die for the good of the genetic lineage. Just like humans, these insects will alter their environment in order to suit their needs. Some species will even "Farm" aphids and other smaller insects, in order to feed their young.

My point with this example, is that we need to reevaluate what we consider "Natural." Is an ant's farming of aphids more natural than humans farming cattle? Is a cat eating grass when it feels sick less natural than a human taking aspirin (a natural component of Willow bark)? Humans may be different from other animals in terms of sentience and consciousness, but why do we consider our actions an opposition to nature, rather than part of it?