Jeff VanderMeer’s novel Annihilation touches on ecology and the natural world. While including elements of science fiction and horror, the book ultimately asks us: what place do humans occupy in relation to the natural world?
This is a question that involves everyone because we all rely on the natural world for survival and, for many of us, meaning. However, this natural world, partly due to human activity, is at risk for widespread damage that will negatively affect humans.
In an essay of 1000 words, MLA, which included 3 outside sources, plus at least one reference to VanderMeer’s novel, answer:
“How should humans interact with the natural world?”
In your worldview, religion, or culture, are humans – through evolution or creation – placed as the dominant species on the earth? If so, does this suggest a right to control and use of all resources? Or does it mean a somber responsibility to protect the natural world and all it provides? If you do not believe humans are the dominant species, does our current behavior acknowledge that we are not supreme? What changes do you think people need to make to have a healthier, symbiotic connection to the environment?
Checklist for final paper
- 1000 words
- 3 sources
- MLA format
- MLA Works Cited List (does not count in final word count)
- At least one quote from Annihilation