In Nation of Plants, neurobiologist Stephan Mancuso argues that humanity’s historically self-destructiive relationship to its environment is a problem that is rooted far deeper than culture. It also springs from the survival models particular to our animal nature.
In contrast to the exploitive, heirarchical, and non-integrative attitudes of animals, plants , whose kingdom far predates our own, display a diffusive, decentralized, and regenerative lifestyle that is also far more in line with the dictates of modernity.
Unlike moblie predators, plants know full well how to adapt to limitations, adopt creative tactics to response to changing conditions, share their resources among their broader community, develop strategies of mutual aid, and even spontaneously regenerate themselves in response to the threats and opportunities of their environment.
In short, Mancuso suggests we should let plants be our teachers. His delightful and insightful little book, at once alarming and amusing, is a must-read for any introspective biped.
