WHO ARE WE?
New ecological challenges emerge every day. Problems give rise to new problems, but the proposed solutions often lack the same diversity as the issues themselves. The Human and Nature Society is an initiative committed to contributing to the diversity of solutions.
We believe that it is not appropriate to address nature as a problem independent of humans. Or, to put it differently: ecological problems are fundamentally shaped by human perceptions, lifestyles, understanding of knowledge, and relationships with power. Changing our understanding and perceptions of humanity naturally leads to a shift in how we perceive nature. Byron once likened nature to a witch, who could justifiably be tortured to reveal her secrets. Even our attitudes toward witches—and what we do to them—reflect how we perceive and treat nature.
One of the primary objectives of the Human and Nature Society is to deeply and comprehensively examine and process traditional ecological knowledge, practices, and perceptions. To achieve this, we will organize meetings, excursions, discussions, and publications. We might be the last generation to possess this traditional ecological wisdom. Our goal is to document it and create a repository of this wisdom. By doing so, we aim to focus on the lessons that can be drawn from the approaches of traditional societies toward nature, both in the East and the West. We also recognize that this wisdom extends to architecture, which harmonizes with nature. For this reason, traditional architecture is also within our scope of interest.
The Human and Nature Society will not only focus on studies related to the environment but will also be actively present in the field. Through excursions, camps, and workshops geared toward production, we will collaborate with partners who share our perspective.
We aim not to overlook the symmetry between humans and nature, their resemblance to one another, and their dynamic interconnectedness. In other words, from the microcosm of humans to the macrocosm of nature, we aspire to view them together and holistically.
OUR MISSION
To explore and promote our responsibilities toward nature, drawing inspiration from both nature itself and traditional wisdom.
OUR VALUES
Nature as a
Work of Art
We see nature not only as a resource for human life but also as an inspiring masterpiece.
Humility
and Generosity
Humility and generosity, values taught by nature, are also our core principles.
An Egalitarian and Collaborative Organization
We envision an egalitarian structure that facilitates intellectual and experiential exchanges among our members and partners.
Lifelong
Learning
We value learning from nature and from those who reflect on it.
Openness
to Practice
We envision activities where theory transforms into practice, and practice validates theory.