More-than-human world

The more-than-human world refers to the vast web of life and natural systems that extend beyond human existence—plants, animals, ecosystems, weather patterns, and geological forces. In recognizing this world, we are reminded that humanity is not the center of existence but one part of an intricate, interdependent network. This perspective challenges the anthropocentric worldview and calls us to approach the environment with humility and reverence, acknowledging the agency, intelligence, and intrinsic worth of non-human life.

Deepening our relationship with the more-than-human world can lead to a profound shift in our values and actions. When we see a forest not just as a resource but as a community of beings, or understand a river as a lifeline rather than a commodity, we begin to reshape our ethical framework. This shift encourages empathy across species boundaries and invites us to reconsider how we build, consume, and interact with the planet. Our well-being is inseparable from the health of the biosphere, and recognizing this connection can foster more sustainable and compassionate ways of living.

Ultimately, reflecting on the more-than-human world is an invitation to expand our sense of kinship and responsibility. It asks us to listen more closely to the rhythms of the Earth and to see ourselves not as conquerors or stewards, but as co-inhabitants of a shared home. In doing so, we open ourselves to awe, wonder, and a deeper understanding of our place in the cosmos—less as masters of nature and more as participants in its unfolding story.