What is Biophilia?
Literally interpreted, it means “Love of Life”. More descriptively, it is a concept that unites the research of many academic disciplines all of which found that We Human Beings, in Order to Live an Optimal Physical, Psychological and Spiritual Life, Need to Live a Life Integrated with the Full Diversity of Nature. It asserts a biological and evolutionary basis for most fundamental values people attach to nature, particularly living biota. The effective realization of these values is integral to the full expression of our humanity. The notion of Biophilia proclaims a human dependence on nature extending far beyond the narrow demand for physical and material sustenance to a broader range of emotional, intellectual and even spiritual needs. (Kellert, Stephen R.. Biophilia and Humanity. New York: Delta Society Conference, October, 1994; and Kellert, Stephen R. and Wilson, Edward O. The Biophilia Hypothesis. Washington, DC, Shearwater Books, 1993). Integrated Past Past Recipients: 2006: Dr
Biophilia can be translated as a love or desire for living things. Erich Fromm used the term in the mid 20th century to describe this human desire. However, it really came into popular use with the publication of the 1993 book The Biophilia Hypothesis, which was co-written by Edward O. Wilson and Stephen Kellert. According to Wilson, and others who endorse this hypothesis, we don’t just love the natural world because it looks nice or is emotionally stirring. Instead, we love it because we are genetically encoded to do so, and a care for “nature” is key to survival. Part of this theory examines why humans are so attracted not just to human babies but also to other baby mammals. From an evolutionary standpoint, killing the young of other mammals would be detrimental to its whole population and in part, human survival. So with a few exceptions, we’ve ascribed cuteness and affection to baby animals so we don’t eat them and endanger our own survival. Some humans seem to be more affected by
