The Future of Life, For The Love Of Life
Terms and Concepts: In the beginning of this chapter Wilson continues his discussion of assessing the value of the biosphere. Here he suggests that the genetic diversity among species as well as the genetic unity connecting all living organisms are fundamental reasons for the value we place in other living species. From here he suggests that we humans value life because of this intimate evolutionary connection with the biotic environment around us. Understand the argument that our evolutionary kinship with the rest of the living world creates an obligation to protect other species. Know the three levels of this argument, anthropocentrism, pathocentrism, and biocentrism. Be able to give examples of biocentrism in our popular culture. Appreciate Wilson’s chain of reasoning leading to the idea that we may have an instinctive preference for certain habitats that reflect our ancestral homeland. Know what habitat selection is and examples among organisms. Understand Wilson’s argument that this phenomenon also applies to humans in the form of the “savanna hypothesis.” Be able to discuss the evidence that Wilson suggests supports this hypothesis. Be aware of the complex relationship between a person’s developmental experience and our genetic history in this process that the author calls “biophilia.” Appreciate the opposite condition, biophobia, and its origins.
- Reading due: 5 December.
- First draft due: 10 December.
- Comments due: 12 December.
- Final draft due: 16 December.
Essay: What does Wilson mean by the term "biophila?" Explain how our evolutionary origins in the savannas of Africa explain our own habitat preferences. Finally, using examples from your home and community descirbe examples that reflect this habitat preference. Image of African savana from http://aedesigns.org/science_final/pictures.html
