What is the More-than-Human World?

Some of our more-than-human kin.

The term "more-than-human world" was introduced by cultural ecologist and philosopher David Abram in his 1996 book The Spell of the Sensuous. This concept emphasizes that nature encompasses not only human beings but also a vast array of other entities — animals, plants, landscapes, and ecosystems — that possess their own forms of intelligence, emotions, and agency. By acknowledging this, we challenge the anthropocentric view that humans are the sole bearers of consciousness and purpose, fostering a more inclusive understanding of our place within the natural world.

Robin Wall Kimmerer, in her essay "The Grammar of Animacy" from Braiding Sweetgrass, expands on this idea by exploring how language shapes our relationship with the more-than-human world. Kimmerer, a botanist and member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, contrasts the English language with Indigenous languages like Potawatomi. She notes that while English often categorizes the natural world as inanimate objects, using pronouns like "it,” Potawatomi assigns animacy to many elements of nature, reflecting a worldview where plants, animals, and even landscapes are considered beings with their own agency.

This linguistic distinction has profound implications. In English, only about 30% of words are verbs, whereas in Potawatomi, approximately 70% are verbs. This verb-centric structure emphasizes actions and relationships, portraying the natural world as dynamic and alive. For instance, in Potawatomi, one might say "to be a bay" rather than referring to "a bay" as a static noun, highlighting the active existence of natural entities.

By adopting a "grammar of animacy," as Kimmerer suggests, we can transform our interactions with the environment. Recognizing the animacy of the more-than-human world encourages respect and reciprocity, fostering a sense of kinship with all forms of life. This shift challenges the dominant narrative of human superiority and invites us to see ourselves as part of a larger, interconnected community.

Embracing the concept of the more-than-human world and the grammar of animacy can lead to more sustainable and ethical environmental practices. It encourages us to move beyond viewing nature solely as a resource for human use and to recognize the intrinsic value of all beings. This perspective not only enriches our understanding of the world but also promotes a more harmonious coexistence with the myriad forms of life that share our planet.

Incorporating these insights into our daily lives can help cultivate a deeper connection to the natural world. By doing so, we honor the wisdom embedded in Indigenous languages and philosophies, paving the way for a more inclusive and empathetic relationship with the Earth and its inhabitants.