Speaking of Forms of Life: The Language of Conservation

Humans pose an unprecedented threat to life in all its great diversity of forms. "Speaking of Forms of Life" argues that the language used to represent and address this crisis is inadequate and alienates us from the other living things. It proposes an alternative language with which we are all familiar, mastered by naturalists, that articulates the primary value in life and the standard that must guide how human beings should live. The book is essential for anyone who cares about conservation and is concerned about the frightening pace of extinctions.

Format: Hardback
Length: 253 pages
Publication date: 27 November 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

Humans, as a species, present an unparalleled threat to the diverse tapestry of life on Earth. The rate of human-induced extinctions has been likened to "mass extinctions" of the past, but this portrayal obscures the underlying truth: the crisis arises from voluntary choices and actions that we can avoid. "Speaking of Forms of Life" highlights the inadequacy of the language commonly employed to describe and address our actions, including terms such as "sustainable development," "rights" for animals and nature, their "intrinsic value," and conservation of species as "populations." This language fosters a sense of detachment from other living beings, hindering our understanding of their true nature, capabilities, and actions. It perpetuates harm and loss, perpetuating a cycle of destruction.

In their groundbreaking work, Campagna and Guevara propose an alternative language that can guide conservation efforts. This language, rooted in the rich tradition of naturalists from Aristotle to Audubon, articulates the fundamental value in life and establishes the ethical standards that should govern how humans should live as a part of the vast web of life. This book serves as a homecoming for conservationists, emphasizing the primacy of securing a creature's ability to fulfill the necessities of its own form of life.

At the heart of this book lies a profound message: the language we use shapes our understanding and actions toward living beings. By adopting a language that recognizes the intrinsic worth and dignity of all forms of life, we can break free from the destructive patterns that have led to the alarming rate of extinctions. This book is a vital resource for anyone who cares about conservation and is deeply concerned about the rapid decline of biodiversity. It provides a solid foundation for conservationists to build upon, drawing upon the insights of Foot and Thompson's work on natural goodness and our thoughts about living beings.

In conclusion, "Speaking of Forms of Life" is a timely and essential contribution to the conservation discourse. By challenging the dominant language and offering an alternative vision, Campagna and Guevara empower conservationists to take a more holistic and ethical approach to protecting the diversity of life on our planet. This book is a must-read for anyone who seeks to bridge the gap between humans and nature, fostering a deeper understanding and reverence for all forms of life.

Weight: 594g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031345333
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023