What Is the Biophilia Hypothesis?

Biophilia hypothesis (BET) is a theory concerning the human species and its relationship to nature. This is an anthropocentric point of view since human beings are a part of nature, but a distinction is made between the direct human experience and the greater natural world. This includes the various biotic and abiotic elements of the world's various ecosystems such as plants and animals.

The concept of biophilia is that a human has an innate tendency to be drawn toward natural systems and living beings. It is an affiliation that means we have a built-in bias towards the natural world, implicitly over the technological and mechanized world created by humans. It may be considered an instinctual bias or a subconscious need. The affinity for nature is thought to be hardwired into our DNA, influencing our emotions and behaviors in profound ways.

The term ‘biophilia’ is made up of the Greek words phillia (which means love) and bio (which means life). Therefore, biophilia is the love of everything living. This intrinsic connection to life and living systems can lead to a deeper understanding of our role within the natural world and the importance of maintaining ecological balance.

The term was first coined by the psychoanalyst and philosopher Erich Fromm. He explained that human beings have a psychological tendency to be attracted to what is alive. According to Fromm, this appreciation can be of other people, ideas, plants, animals or social groups.

This affinity was not a new concept. It was something many humans had known instinctually. For example, Aristotle observed that man always has love for life, based on the principle of reciprocity to survive. However, it had never previously been given a name and studied scientifically. In essence, biophilia acknowledges this ancient understanding, providing a framework for its exploration and application.

After Fromm, biologist Edward O. Wilson refined the term and published a book called Biophilia: the Love of Nature or That Which Makes Us Human. In this book, he used the word to base his biophilia hypothesis. This hypothesis is considered part of the study of evolutionary psychology. His refinement explains that even cognitive processes have advanced to facilitate the survival of species through the adaptation of behaviors. Wilson's work has spurred further research into how biophilia can influence modern conservation efforts and environmental policies.

Since Wilson, the term biophilia is used more to express affinity to nature. It also differs from Fromm's original meaning because Wilson explains that it is not only of psychological origin, but rather a genetic factor in human evolutionary development. This genetic connection suggests that our love for life is not merely emotional but is embedded in our very biology, shaping our interactions with the natural world.

Learn more about evolutionary adaptation with our article on what is rapid evolution?

Although the biophilia hypothesis is just that (i.e. a hypothesis), it can have some practical applications in ecology. When put into action, biophilic approaches to various ecological issues might have certain benefits, regardless of its fundamental validity. Such applications of the biophilia hypothesis may include:

• It works as a method of adaptation: living beings do not exist in isolation, but rather we depend on relationships with other organisms to survive and vice versa. This allows others to exist. For this reason, biophilia can be seen a method of evolutionary adaptation of mutual cooperation. This interconnectedness emphasizes the significance of biodiversity and the need to preserve it for ecological resilience.
  
  
• Encourages environmental values: biophilia involves emotional ties to nature. It is through them that an environmental education based on values that serve the common good and the development of the personality of individuals towards that end may be achieved. Educational programs that incorporate biophilia can inspire future generations to become stewards of the planet.
  
  
• Promotes environmental care: by valuing natural resources, humans are more likely to avoid deteriorating ecosystems and causing various types of environmental degradation. Doing so not only helps the flora and fauna of various ecosystems, but it best ensures the continuation of the human species. In this way, biophilic applications can be seen as mutually beneficial. Moreover, by promoting sustainable practices, biophilia supports long-term ecological balance.
  
  
• Avoids speciesism: speciesism is a type of discrimination where certain animals are considered superior to others, usually with humans being considered the most important. Biophilia brings us closer to all living beings, with the compassion and equity that each one deserves for the simple fact of having life. This perspective can lead to more ethical treatment of animals and a broader understanding of their intrinsic value.
  
  
• Enriches our experiences: not only can we learn from other humans, but going out into nature gives us new experiences, expanding our perspectives. Interacting with nature can enhance creativity, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.
  
  
• Reduces the alienation caused by artificial environments: the feeling of tiredness from spending a whole day in an office, in a city or at home, can lead to severe states of stress, anxiety and depression. Human beings depend on nature to provide a feeling of well-being. Applications of the biophilia hypothesis can allow us to have higher levels of dopamine, oxytocin, endorphins and similar hormones that make us feel good. Consequently, integrating nature into our daily lives can foster mental and emotional health.

The approaches of the biophilia hypothesis can also be transferred to other spheres, such as architecture. When this branch of design, art and technique incorporates designs that respect and enhance nature, it can help better integrate human infrastructure into natural ecosystems. This integration not only supports ecological balance but also improves the quality of life for inhabitants by fostering a sense of connection to the natural world.

Examples of incorporating biophilic theory into design may include an office with trees inside, large windows facing the sunrise to take advantage of as much sunlight as possible, incorporating water features, landscapes to enjoy through the windows or better connection with external spaces. These are examples of direct experience in which biophilia can be incorporated into architecture. Additionally, such designs can improve air quality, regulate temperatures naturally, and create more inviting spaces.

There is also indirect experience, where elements that evoke nature are used, even if they are not actual living beings. For example, when neutral color palettes, earth tones and green and blue colors, organic shapes in furniture, images of nature or replicas of geometry observable in nature are used. These elements can create calming environments that mimic the tranquillity of natural settings, contributing to occupants' well-being.

Now you know the definition of biophilic theory and its applications, you may want to know more about biological and ecological approaches. You can do this with our articles on the difference between biosphere, ecosphere and ecosystem and the difference between autecology and synecology.

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