How Do Humans Fit into the Natural World? Are We a Part of Nature or Separate from It?

Humanity has a unique role in the natural world. Unlike other creatures, we have the capacity to complete the great big ecological sphere we are parts of. Yet, our current behavior disrupts the delicate balance of the ecosystem, creating harm not only to the environment but also to ourselves.

To fit correctly into the ecological realm, we must first recognize that nature operates as a single, global, and integral system. Every part, from the smallest microorganism to the largest ecosystem, is interconnected. Humanity, as part of this system, must act in harmony with these natural laws.

Such an understanding places upon us a special responsibility — not merely to preserve nature as it is but to participate in its correction. By aligning our actions with nature’s integrality, we can contribute to the overall balance, ensuring that all of nature, including humanity, functions harmoniously.