- Roskilde University Denmark
This study examines the term ’nature’ and its relation to humans. In an attempt to derive a certain understanding of the complexity of the word, the examination will build on Danish philosopher Hans Fink’s description of modern western culture’s view on nature. To achieve a better understanding of this modern view, the focus of the study lies on a historical examination and analysis of selected works by prominent philosophers, from ancient Greek times to modern ages. These analyses of these periods conclude an undeniable influence on modern day perception of nature. The study assumes that today’s human relation to nature have certain issues regarding vast distancing and exploitation. By this assumption it is this study’s purpose to question whether it is possible to change or renew this relationship in order to obtain a better and more sustainable way of coexisting with nature.