Humankind's History with Trees: Our symbiotic relationship with trees throughout history
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Description |
Source(s) / Link(s) |
"The Tree That Shaped Human History" |
written by Mike Shanahan, a freelance writer with a doctorate degree in rainforest ecology, describes humankind's symbiotic relationship with trees through history. Shanahan specifically draws our attention to species of fig trees (including F. religiosa) that have long provided sustenance for wildlife and humans alike, and presents evidence that these fig trees have played a major role in our own evolution and brain development. Mike Shanahan has written a book entitled "Gods, Wasps and Stranglers" (published in the UK as "Ladders to Heaven") and maintains a blog about trees and nature called Under the Banyan. |
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"Three Similarities Between Trees and Humans" |
by Criswell Davis, the Architectural Marketing Manager for Frank Miller Lumber,. Davis writes about the uniqueness and beauty of both humans and trees, and about our symbiotic relationship and complementary respiratory cycles. Davis also describes the peak harvest time where trees have reached their optimal growth and carbon storage, and the select cutting (rather than clear cutting) that allows for trees to regenerate and provides sunlight for new growth. |
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"People and Trees: Intimately Connected Through the Ages" |
writer Jocelyn Mercado describes the sacredness of trees and humankind's relationship with them throughout history spanning many cultures (including Norse mythology, Irish, German, and Swedish folklore. Mercado explores the positive psychological effect that trees have on humans' well-being, both ancient and modern cultures' reverence for trees, and the effect of trees on humans' physical health. |
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"People and Trees: An Intimate Connection" |
In her article, Ruth Wilson describes humans' sense of peace and well-being when surrounded by trees and out in nature. Wilson describes the benefits of trees to humans and to the planet, and also explores our deep spiritual connection to them. |
