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Idea 2: Literary/Written Focus Literary Focus - Mood board

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Idea 3: Sentimental/Artistic Sentimental/artistic - Mood board

However, after class discussion, these appear to be merely styles, rather than directions to take the project.

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3 Final Directions

Final Direction 1: Telling the story of nature and drawing parallels through human history.

Themes: Chronological and Contrasts

1. First - Recovery after a natural calamity.

- follow development of a reforestation after a fire, starts from nothing.

- grows in balance and harmony

- how nature mends itself

2. Then something negative in human world

- Ex. some war or event, famine in history.

- Instead of choosing nature/natural way - fight against each other or split off.

- World wars, people were selfish.

- Starts with, and leads to a chain of events. ripple effect. - this leads to eventual …

3. Lastly - show positive initiative

- Ex. starbucks water for children, or saving animals after oil spill.

Method - Bold key words, collage of images and text, 3 parts, folding out, showing the

ripple effect.

Final Direction 1 mood board

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Final Direction 2: Telling the story through the micros of nature

- making connections with the details of nature.

Themes: Biological and Systems.

1. At micro level, things in you.

- Start with the smallest basic elements. eg. iron, water, salt.

- This is the same in you and the same in the world around you.

- This shows you are a part of the greater structure.

- You are linked together. same things in you.

- The point of this part, you share these comment elements therefore you are a part of

this system.

2. Next as systems. look at nature. when it works in systems, nature is working in harmony.

- Symbiotic, rainforest. you see that you are essentially a part of this.

- Rainforest e.g. tall trees block harsh elements from smaller plants. diagrams, with facts.

- Look at this, how it is mirrored in the human body. we ourselves are a small system.

- Looking at human disharmony, if parts aren’t cooperating. eg. diseases.

3. Finally as successful human systems.

- We don’t necessarily have a choice with our inward body, however in the greater system

outside us, we need to recognize our need to be joined, connected to those around us.

- this is what leads to balance and harmony, and allows the system to function optimally.

- looking lastly at functioning human systems such as a city, traffic, hospital?

Final Direction 2 mood board

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Final Direction 3: Perspective of a different person.

Telling the story through a illustrated children’s book

Themes: Narrative, Children’s book.

Main idea: Kid learns through his trip that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

Examples of different exhibits he would view:

1. Human body exhibit.

- What does a cell look like?

- How they all work together, what each cell needs to be doing

- He notices that all the blood cells/tissue cells or other cells are similar.

2. Antarctica exhibit.

- Facts about the icy dessert.

- Frozen wasteland.

- Display of penguins, they rotate constantly with the babies in the middle so that the penguins on

the outside of the circle don’t freeze and everyone stays warm.

- boy realizes that they all have to work together.

3. Insect world exhibit.

- There is an ant hill and a bee hive

- Worker bees working together to feed larva, create honey, pollinate.

(stress on the sameness, and the connected).

- they pass along messages by dancing. Messages pass over great distances between the bees.

4. Rainforest exhibit.

- Big tree, protects the smaller delicate plants at the bottom, working together.

- When it dies, it supplies nutrients for saplings to grow. all working together.

5. Universe.

- Different planets, the give and take, keeping everything in balance.

- He sees this pattern in the solar systems, another good system in the natural world.

- Stars explode, creating millions more stars.

End:

- He realizes, all humans are the same, working together. So essentially the same in nature, con-

tributing.

- He walks outside the museum with his friend, and its snowing at night, winter time.

- They are both playing separately in the snow, building small piles, they decide to work together,

and they build a snow castle.

Final Direction 3 mood board

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SUMMARY OF RESEARCH

The initial problem identified in this thesis project is that people are selfish and self-cen-

tered and consequently are not aware of the similarities that they share with others. There

are barriers that people put up between themselves and those outside themselves – the

rest of the world. As a result of these barriers, the individual loses touch with those they

are in connection with because they lack an appreciation of these connections. The natural

elements in each of us are what allow us to connect to those around us and to appreciate

each person as a part of the whole, the bigger picture.

Initially the concept which I researched was the bull’s eye, three concentric circles. The

inner circle is the individual self, the ring outside that is those immediately outside oneself,

and the outer ring is the world and the rest of humanity. However, this model fell short of

providing a solution, and rather merely identified the problem, highlighting lack of connec-

tions.

After further consideration, these initial thoughts formed into a more fluid concept taking

a river as a metaphor. Each person is a drop, which, when connected to others, builds to

a trickle, a stream, and a rushing river as everyone contributes to something bigger than

themselves. Each person within this larger “river” can relate to others because of the

sameness of nature they all possess.

This thought, of the similar nature inside each of us, is supported by the words of Mike

Cohen, an author and ecologist. He states, “People’s relationship to Planet Earth is like our

leg’s relationship to our body. We are ecologically a product and likeness of nature, sharing

“one breath” with all species” (Cohen). He compares a human, biologically, to fertile forest

soil by saying, “One teaspoon of humus consists of water, minerals and hundreds of other

microorganism species: five million bacteria, twenty million fungi, one million protozoa and

two hundred thousand algae, all living cooperatively in balance. This coincides with our

bodies containing water, minerals and ten times as many cells of non-human microorgan-

ism species as human cells, all living cooperatively in balance. Over half our body weight

consists of the weight of “foreign” microorganism species in balance with each other and

ourselves. They are vital, inextricable parts of every cell in our body. Over 115 different spe-

cies live on our skin alone. (Cohen). This literally shows how we humans are connected and

formed from many different organisms working together. The realization, that the natural

elements in each human are the same and it is these shared elements which connect us to

those around us, is vital.

Cohen also points out that many times confusion and problems in society arise from

individuals failing to appreciate their personal connection to the natural elements they are

composed of. Rather Cohen claims that society teaches us to conquer nature, and separate

ourselves from the natural world (Cohen).

The positive result that Cohen stresses is that when “people feelingly make thoughtful

contact with nature, they become more sensitive to life. They think, feel and build person-

al, social and environmental relationships in more enjoyable, caring and responsible ways.

Their runaway problems subside. This is not a surprise. It results from the intelligent

way nature has “wired” us and all of life to relate in supportive balance” (Cohen). In light

of this argument, it is very interesting to examine the restorative balance of the natural

world in contrast to the perpetual imbalance present within human society.

To summarize Cohen’s writing, these natural connections and practical basis of commu-

nity within each of us are what allows us to build and cherish our connections to those

around us.

These connections to one another add strength as a whole. As part of my research I also

considered the connections and symmetry seen in the natural world that strengthen it’s

designs. In his article, “Symmetry, the Thread of Reality”, Ian Steward brings to light the

concept that, “Throughout the natural world, we see intriguing symmetrical patterns:

the spiral sweep of a snail’s shell; the neatly arranged petals of a flower; the gleaming

crescent of a new moon. The same patterns occur in many different settings. The spiral

form of a shell recurs in the whirlpool of a hurricane and the stately rotation of a galaxy;

raindrops and stars are spherical; and hamsters, herons, horses, and humans are bilateral-

ly symmetrical. Symmetries arise on every conceivable scale, from the innermost compo-

nents of the atom to the entire universe” (Steward). This shows the designs that could be

utilized as imagery of the natural world, strengthened by its symmetry, its sameness.

My research has led me to examine the basic similarities that we all posses, rather than

boasting in individual strengths or special qualities. Through this research, I will endeavor

to show the value of each person, not merely as an individual but as a small part of the

bigger picture. However, the problem is that people often lack an understanding of the

basic natural element we all share, leading to negative results.

This lack of appreciation of the nature within all of us has been a constant source of inter-

est and lament explored by writers throughout history. As part of the research process,

I examined William Wordsworth’s poem, “The World is Too Much With Us”, in which he

states, “For this, for everything, we are out of tune (Wordsworth 8-9).” He is comparing

people to a musical instrument that has become out of tune with nature. He thus implies

that humanity is supposed to be in tune so as to be in harmony with nature. However, as

presented in this poem, reality often falls far short of Wordworth’s ideal balance between

humanity and the natural world.

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Another negative result of people losing sight of this sameness, the essential humanity we

all share, is the feeling of being alone, outcast, having no place in the world. In addition,

this “blindness” may lead to an exaggerated sense of self-importance. It is interesting to

learn that in different parts of the world, this topic of negative individuality is approached

very differently. For example, “The Ego Boom” depicts an interesting portrayal of self-cen-

tered American culture in contrast with non-western culture. Maich states that, “The West-

ern understanding of the concept [of the self]… is independent, that is, it has given rise to a

culture of self-actualization and a focus on developing one’s unique potential” (Maich 43).

In contrast, it claims that in many other non-Western nations, “people traditionally assume

an interdependent construct of the self that involves seeing oneself in terms of one’s place-

ment in and contribution to, the larger group” (Maich 43). It goes on to further discuss that

this social relativism leads to a need for belonging and a reliance on others. Consequently,

the “worst-case scenario” in this social system would be exclusion from the larger group,

and being alone (Maich 43). Maich also states that, “To put it bluntly, humans are pack ani-

mals, and thriving within a pack often requires the ability to sublimate one’s own ego and

to keep at least some focus on one’s place in the greater scheme of things” (Maich 43). This

is very interesting to examine as it supports my thesis of the value of connecting to those

around you and of the strength derived from such a connection. This is shown and mirrored

in the natural world, as Maich compares humans to packs of animals, who gather food and

protect each other as a group, rather than thriving individually.

While a sole focus on yourself and your unique potential, results in losing touch with the

natural elements inside yourself and the global sameness humanity possesses, being in

touch with this nature around and inside you is what allows you to relate and have com-

passion for others. When this similar nature is not recognized, the most extreme results

are selfishness, atrocities, suicides, and war.

In “The Psychology of War” Lawrence LeShan presents the argument that in some cases,

war itself can even prove attractive to individuals trapped in isolation because it offers the

chance to band together against a greater force – regardless of the consequences. LeShan

argues that many people join such a cause due to a need for acceptance into a group and

that not being involved makes one isolated and an outsider (LeShan 88). This need to be a

social group is so strong that it leads people to violence against each other, and the realiza-

tion of the sameness of humanity is forgotten. Hence, people turn on each other fuelled by

negative emotions, friction, and unhappiness, resulting in the ultimate impact of the lack of

appreciation to those around them and to the entire world – war.

In the natural world, the parallel is quite strong; elements in the natural world that are

disconnected are weak, and eventually break down. This also frequently occurs in human

society, when individuals stop recognizing the connections they share with those around

them and the rest of the world. There does not appear to be many positive examples of

separation and isolation in nature, because the natural world is all connected, working

together in systems which all contribute to something greater and strengthen the whole.

The positive result of our human interconnectedness, as Aristotle wrote, is that “the

whole is greater than the sum of its parts” (Aristotle). Each individual person, shares a

common human element with the other “parts” and it is this natural element which all

human share which allows us to connect to one another. Appreciating this connection

subsequently leads to a realization that each decision, whether positive or negative, not

only directly impacts those immediately surrounding you, but also “ripples” out to affect a

larger demographic. Hence, if you are in tune with this natural element within you, and al-

low it to direct your decisions, the outcome is positive because everyone has a useful part

to add to the greater whole.

As I further considered this natural element in each person, it was useful to look at the

writings of Dr. Huang Ju who compares human life to insect life. In Chinese philosophy,

“humans and nature are one and the same, and individuals are component parts of exis-

tence. The philosophy promotes real freedom and happiness… coming into nature” (Ju).

According to Ju, the goal of this philosophy is to show a full understanding of the great-

ness of nature in harmony. He states that, “insects play an…important role in our spiri-

tual lives. In fact, insects represent the majority of life on the planet and the influences

they exert on us touch almost every aspect of our culture. Their actions as individuals and

societies illustrate our biological relatedness and remind us of the importance of being in

harmony with nature” (Ju). It is interesting to look at our connections with the natural ele-

ments inside ourselves as well as with other organisms outside of us, and “our significance

as biological entities related to the planet” (Ju). This writer suggests that we “take a closer

look at our at our true importance in relation to nature. History has shown an endless

assault on the environment and natural resources due to our habits of immediate grati-

fication. These actions go hand in hand with our unwillingness to take responsibility for

how our current actions will effect other people in the present and more importantly in the

future” (Ju). This philosophy at its base seeks to find and reestablish the natural balance

between nature and ourselves.

The structures and similarities of the natural world can be broken down into basic parts,

such as water, the structures of cells and shared biological components within all living

things. For instance, I could examine the presence of specific elements, such as iron,

water, or salt within various organisms which are also constantly and perpetually recycled

within our planet’s oceans, forests, etc. in an endless cycle that has been going on since

the beginning of the world. This could be an interesting focus, possibly taken further if I

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completed additional research, delving into scientific facts pertaining to humans and other

living life on the most basic biological level.

Reconnection with the nature inside you is what forms the appreciation of the similar na-

ture in all of us. Further examples in the natural world include bees working together as a

hive for a common goal, or the ocean full of life and structures working together in balance

and harmony.

As stated in the article, “Human Beings as Social Beings”, “As social beings, humans will al-

ways be in a relationship with one another to achieve the necessities of life. For example to

get a beautiful dress, an individual requires the expertise of a tailor. To get a piece of fresh

fruit, the individual needs a fruit seller” (Human Beings are Social Beings). There are many

other examples of the benefits of interdependence. Here we see that without the presence

of others, one is not be able to meet their needs and satisfy their desires. This supports the

connection between human beings and the rest of nature; they, just as every other group

and system, need to work together and appreciate that each person is a valuable part of

society. The beneficial impact of working together as a unit or group is much stronger than

what can be achieved merely by an individual.

The writer Carmen Harra focuses on this unity of the world providing strength in her book

“Wholeliness,” in which she states, “The problem is that it is easy to focus on your separ-

ateness rather than on your…connection. The human focus on individuality and the ‘my

group versus your group’ mentality has brought us to the brink of catastrophe, to the mo-

ment in human history when there [must] be a turning point” (Harra 15).

Harra states that to combat this negativity there is a need for expansive thinking. “Ex-

pansive thinking involves a wide perspective and willingness to take in and synthesize the

totality of what you see, hear and come into contact with, and [helps] you recognize and

cherish your sacred connections to those who you are sharing the planet with” (Harra 208).

The ideas presented in all of the above sources are very applicable to my research and to

the argument that it is people’s recognition of the fact that all human beings share a com-

mon basic nature which encourages them to contribute to the greater good. This identifi-

cation of their essential similarity causes people to appreciate the connections they have to

those around them, and to the rest of the world, based on the similar nature they all pos-

ses. This more expansive focus on others and the greater good would ideally cause people

to make less selfish choices and to appreciate others after seeing that they too are valuable

contributors to a more harmonious global community.

Works Cited

Aristotle. Metaphysics. 350 BCE. The Internet Classics Archive: 441 Searchable Works of Classical

Literature. 2009. Web. 1 Oct. 2011. <http://classics.mit.edu/Aristotle/metaphysics.html>.

Cohen, Mike. “On Connecting with Nature.” SagePlace - Therapy, Positive Psychology, Per-

sonal Growth, Healing. Web. 1 Oct. 2011. <http://sageplace.com/on_connecting_with_nature.

htm>.

Harra, Carmen. Wholeliness: Embracing the Sacred Unity That Heals Our World. Carlsbad, CA:

Hay House, 2011. Print.

Ju, Dr. Huang. “Spirit & Enlightenment.” Insects and Bugs on the Web: Insects.org. Web. 1

Oct. 2011. <http://www.insects.org/ced1/spir_enl.html>.

LeShan, Lawrence L. The Psychology of War: Comprehending Its Mystique and Its Madness.

New York: Helios, 2002. Print.

Maich, Steve, and Lianne George. The Ego Boom: Why the World Really Does Revolve around

You. Toronto: Key Porter, 2009. Print.

Stewart, Ian. “Symmetry: The Thread of Reality.” Fortunecity. Web. 1 Oct. 2011. <http://

www.fortunecity.com/emachines/e11/86/tredreal.html>.

Unknown. “Human Beings Are Social Beings – Individual Human Beings and Social Be-

ings.” Article Online Blog. Web. 1 Oct. 2011. <http://diariovientosur.com/2011/2224/individu-

al-human-beings-and-social-beings/>.

Wordsworth, William. “The World Is Too Much with Us.” Shmoop: Homework Help, Teacher

Resources, Test Prep. Web. 1 Oct. 2011. <http://www.shmoop.com/world-is-too-much-with-

us/man-the-natural-world-quotes.html>.

Books to be further examined for research:

Brantley, Jeffrey, and Wendy Millstine. True Belonging: Mindful Practices to Help You Overcome

Loneliness, Connect with Others, and Cultivate Happiness. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger Publi-

cations, 2011. Print.

Cacioppo, John T., and William Patrick. Loneliness: Human Nature and the Need for Social Con-

nection. New York: W.W. Norton &, 2008. Print.

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process book - part 2