Interestingly were-beasts are a common thread across different cultures. Men and women who have the ability to change into animals. Shape-shifters who are able to travel between the human and the animal world – berserkers, loupgarou, aswangs and werewolves with the aid of magical salves; pacts with the devil and infection can a be man-beasts with a hunger for blood and meat of humans. No one was immune , even those who would say their prayers at night may be come wolf when the moon was whole.
This is of course myth and folklore. Embedded in fairy tales and even urban myths that most of us are familiar with. The most famous of all would be tale of Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf. This was and is a cautionary tale that tell us when in the woods do not talk to strangers and never stray from the path.
There are of course true accounts of people killed by man-eaters, not werewolves although some, because of the kill and stories woven around them have became legendary.
The Beast of Gevaudan
In a region in France. a beast described as a giant animal resembling a wolf killed a shepardress – decapitating her head in the process. Gevaudan was a forested area and wolves have been known to attack travellers – one pack of wolves entered Paris before and created havoc until they were cornered and stoned to death by the Parisians. The attacks happened during the reign of Louise XV and people did not believe in werewolves anymore. Although, as the attacks increased and the beast seems to fiendishly evade capture and death; the notoriety of the beast increased to the point that it become to be known as The Beast Its infamy spread beyond Gevaudan, beyond Paris and beyond France: The British newspapers made fun of the French for failing to capture the Beast. A number of wolves were killed but still the attacks continued. The Beast was killed not once but twice before its legend died down.
There have been many theories about the Beast. A giant lone wolf; an ancient hyaena; a dog-hyaena hybrid and even a chimpanzee. Recently an academic study came out that theorised the attacks done in Gevaudan were done not by one wolf but by different wolf packs.
Louis the XV were shown the remains to the two beasts at Versailles. The first beast was deemed un-impressive since it failed to live to its reputed size; while the second one was dismissed outright because it was properly preserved, making it repugnant to look at.
The Beast of Gevaudan is a favourite topic of cryptologists and there are many theories surrounding the incident; and one of the theories inspired the French film The Brotherhood of the Wolf
The Ghost and the Darkness
A railway project that followed an old slave route in Africa becomes the setting of the other story. It happened in the Tsavo region of Africa. British engineers and Indian workers where building a railroad when the attacks came. Workers began to disappear and soon talks of two demons were responsible. Soon they found out two male Tsavo Lions were responsible for the killing of the workers/ The Tsavo male lions were and are not the usual lions we might be used to, they lacked the mane that are frequently shown in media. Like the Beast of Gevaudan the Lions had the uncanny ability of evading measures devised to stop them from attacking people and measures to kill them. Eventually they were killed separately by the engineer building the railway named Patterson. The first news and stories came out about the Lion man-eaters were that they devoured around 130 individuals. Later studies reveal the actual number was thirty. They were not the first or last Tsavo Lions that killed humans.
Patterson kept the Tsavo man-eaters as trophies their skulls and lion skins in his house in England. Eventually, row remains were bought by the Chicago museum, where it was stuffed, put on displayed and studied. And studies later revealed that the Lions main diet were not human but included other animals. Other encounters of Big Cats also came to be known man-eaters, the Tigers of Asia featured mainly in these stories.
The story of the Lions of Tsavo was adapted to two films one of them happens to be the Ghost and the Darkness, which were the names given by to the lions during their spree in Africa.
Saddam the Killer Chimp
The last story we have is the lone male chimp who came to be known as Saddam in Africa. Children and infants began to go missing in a village near a reserve in Africa.In one instance a baby was snatched from the mother while she was tending the fields in another a baby was snacthed from within the family hut when no one was looking. The remains of the babies were found after they were eaten. A lone and ostracised by the tribe male chimp was believed to have been responsible. At one point people saw him running away from a field or a house with the infant in his arms. He was nicknamed Saddam by the locals, after then Iraq’s leader Saddam Hussein.
The reserve administration and the locals rook action. Like in the case of the Beast of Gevaudan and the Tsavo Lions it took some time but eventually he was killed. Saddam was cornered and shot.
Despite the depiction of Chimpanzees in television and film as fun loving and cute they do grow up and like man has a habit of violence as a way of life. Violence in and between different groups. It is their cousins the Bonobo who are more peaceful and opting to use sex rather violence to settle things. Interestingly enough, the Bonobos were able to develop their own behaviour because of a river that separated them from the Chimpanzees. Also the Chimpanzees and the Bonobos are the Great Apes genetically close to Man.
Werewolf Ecology
Frank Herbert wrote a passage in his novel Dune that states that Ecology is the study of consequences. If you notice from the three famous or infamous stories of man killers two things readily standout. FIRST, All encounter happen when humans and animals come into contact and conflict. Nature and human civilisation collide there are effects and consequences. The ecology or inter-relationship in the area is disrupted and changed: Predator and prey relationship change; keystone species are displaced; Food source can become scare or even totally depleted; and species that eat only specific food, once it is gone moves away or disappear; And one notices those that survive can eat almost anything or omnivorous. These in turn has been having an impact on its flora and fauna. Given these things, There are usually two short term options adaptation or extinction. SECOND, In all stories, like all werewolf stories, it ended terminally. Is this the only ending when conflict between civilisation and nature happens.
In Attenborough’s documentary series The Life of Mammals carnivores or meat eaters were given one episode and near the end an ironic scene, the Tiger, probably the worlds most successful carnivore, was walking in a field of snow only to be confronted by a wire fence. Man and Nature has met again. Who knows if this is the future state of affairs; animals living in walled enclosures, cages.
This also highlights the challenges of conservation and management of reserves. What can and should be done mn and nature comes face to face. Is there a solution that does not involve extinction. How can you manage natural resources effectively? For Red Riding Hood journeying through the forest to see Grandmother there were only two rules – Do not stray from the path and Do not talk to Strangers. If we want to preserve Nature and save ourselves what two rules do we follow to avoid the Big Bad Wolf or Absolute Extinction?
First respect and understand Nature; and Second stay clear from the twins – greed and corruption?
Something to ruminate on, I think: the vast breadth of the idea of were-beasts across times and cultures. It interests me how the human mind perceives phenomena, because somehow all of mankind CAN be bridged by the similarities in our ideas and conceptions. Take the were-beast for example: the idea of changing with the course of the moon, or simply the general shifting of forms, appears numerous times in history across various countries. Whether these are brought along by similar stimuli different people have experienced, or an even stranger idea of a metaphysical connection between the minds of our species (take for example the question, “Why is everyone, regardless of race or age, innately afraid of the dark, or thin, white figures?”), or simply just a wonder of cross-communication through early trading which spread the ideas of one culture to another, I think it remains that beyond the obvious internet and media, a deep-set connection exists within humanity that was forged and continues to be forged from generation to generation.
Man and nature have always been colliding and coming into contact as time progresses. Although, we have to think that man’s existence could not have happened without nature. Extinction is not always the solution since it would result to one party losing and the other winning, with the benefit of survival.
Equal sharing among these two parties might help, but would not ensure lasting effects. The two rules provided at the end of the essay is important to help resolve this problem. Understanding Nature – how it works and what it needs, and blocking the effects of greed and corruption could provide possible ways to avoid the Big Bad Wolf or Absolute Extinction.
Pauline Angeli B. Adalid
2012-52627
STS THX
I would like to agree that respect is the key to saving nature and everyone else. We are used to be loyal to the anthropocentric view between us human and the nature. We look upon our actions and our mere existence as superior and come nature as only a subordinate- as a resource where we can get substinence. Long before we step to this land , ants are already in colonies and fishes are already living by schools. This view we have towards nature had caused us to take for granted its existence,that is, nature has its regenerative capacity. Our manipulation to our environment has disrupted this characteristic of nature and with that scarcity was born. We often neglected that it will take TIME for nature to rise again.
Jamievee Bautista
2013-78608
STS THX
If you want to get a perfectly unanimous and unanimously indifferent answer to a question, the perfect question to ask would be: “Should we protect the environment?” The truth is that the majority of privileged humankind is basking in the comfort of technology while thoughtlessly nodding to conservation campaigns. And let’s face it, most of us have had wishy-washy opinions like “green is good” or “protect Mother Earth” ever since we’ve been reinforced by that star from our Science teacher or that look of approval from some cool vegans we want to hang with. The simple fact is that humans—and everything living on this planet for that matter—rarely have compassion for anyone outside their immediate social circles, much less for a member of a different species.
Here’s the thing—I think humans have got it all wrong. We have this paradigm where we are either the “heroes” saving or the “bad guys” ruining this thing called “nature”. Folks, we are nature. We are part of this whole ecosystem. We are not destroying the system of nature by disrupting it or polluting it—the nature of nature is change itself. The only thing our actions could lead to is the destruction of parts of nature, such as other species, or our very own. To be replaced without anyone batting an eyelash. So much for “Mother” Earth.
As someone who is neither a conservationist nor an extinctionist, I just do not feel anything whatsoever about this road of destruction that we’re paving. The human brain is by default not designed to feel for something like this—it’s a psych thing (and a whole other story besides). However, just because we don’t feel compelled by these issues, doesn’t mean we shouldn’t think about the situation and act accordingly. What’s the point of our prefrontal cortex if we’re just going to do nothing about the things that do not arouse emotions within us? If we believe that certain decisions or actions would lead to harm for our species, by all means, reform them. The answer lies not in the comforting unambiguity of conservation or extinction. It’s within the gray areas in between, if only we use our gray matter to navigate wisely.
People coin the term “monsters” to those who affect or bring damage to the lives of mankind. However, as we look on the other side of the issue, these what we call “monsters” might have reasons for doing these to people.
As we watch Filipino films, we might have heard of the terms Kapre and dwendes (elves). Some believe in these entities, while some do not. But I’m sure that our parents might have warned us about these creatures. Kapres are believed to live on trees, as while dwendes live on some mounted grounds. And legends say that if we interfere with their habitat, we might be in danger. As we watch films, destroying these creatures’ habitats is the main reason for their revenge on human beings. And that is the moral of these stories.
We might have heard of the saying, “everything has its reasons.” In the case of the issues that happened worldwide regarding were-beasts and terrifying creatures, there might be stories behind it that triggered the attacks. Who knows? Probably the beast/s of Gevaudan and the Tsavo man- eaters were irritated because of the people’s activities that destruct and destroy their habitats. The Tsavo man-eaters might probably not want the construction that was happening in that place because of the possible effects that it might bring to them. As for the case of Saddam the lone chimp, he might want some attention through capturing children and killing them (although it’s not a good idea).
We all know that killing is an inhuman act. However, what I’m pointing out is that people should not only think about getting their revenge to those killers. They must also think and reminisce the reasons that might be behind the incidents. Justice is not only about capturing the killer. It is also about knowing the stories behind.
ASUNCION, Ven John B.
2015-07359
STS THY
I certainly agree with (a) respecting and understanding Nature, and (b) staying away from greed and corruption. The goal is really to have a perfect balance between using our scarce natural resources in the most efficient way possible and having just the right amount of control and care for it. I believe that what we can do as individuals to help slow the loss of biodiversity is to be more mindful, at the very least, of the products we consume that have a negative impact to the environment and the habitat of endangered animals.
Carissa Lim
2014-01579
STS THX
The ecology and conception of the idea that there are werewolves is because of man’s selfish desires and that of the innate hostility of animals when harmed.
Jesse Doctor
2013-11425
STS THY
I agree with the two rules in preserving nature and saving ourselves, just as what the thesis of natural selection, or survival of the fittest, really claims, according to Darwinians, is not that the fittest always survive but that, on average, the more fit (or the fittest) are more successful in survival and reproduction than the less fit (or unfit). Another way of putting this is to say that the fit have a greater propensity toward successful survival and reproduction.(http://www.britannica.com/science/survival-of-the-fittest)
Knowing that we humans are more capable of thinking practically and are more in control of the usage of resources, the greater responsibility is shouldered on us. I would suggest continuous spread of knowledge and awareness on these things rather than focusing on so many other issues that blind us all and make us think of ourselves as superiors to this world. Too much of anything is bad indeed.
Kelly Dela Cruz, 2013-79328
When I was reading this, my thoughts are that these animals are not really evil, but certain incidents or situations push them to be bad. Seriously, if you are being provoked, don’t you think fighting back is a better option rather than run away and ignore the villains? Animals are like humans as well because they also have the instinct to feel the need of revenge. In the story of ‘the Ghost and the Darkness’, let me give you another perspective. Lets say the lions were the protagonists of the story. I see these big cats leaving in peace and then comes the big machineries and noisy people declaring that they are going to make a railroad. Don’t you think its unfair to think that they were the devils of the story. Because in my perspective, they were the victims. They were the ones who needed the rescuing and not man. And the killing they did was somehow fair, because it was just retaliation against the people who were trying to take away the peace in their home.
And a question comes into my head, “Who are the real predators?”
Marc Benedict B. Talamayan
STS THX
2015-03672
As someone who has been fascinated by animals in the wild (such as in Africa) for a long time now, I have to agree that the problem is that we neither respect nor understand nature. I have seen countless of documentaries on humans invading animal territory without any clear idea on how these animals act. Most human beings would destroy the natural habitats of animals without completely knowing the consequences of this; hence: animal man-killers.
However, I would just like to add that I think that the encounter of man and nature is inevitable. As a species, we also have needs that can only be gotten from the parts of nature that are inhabited by different species. As such, whether we like it or not, we will need to interact with animals. Thus, we should know the balance between getting what we need and getting what we want.
Finally, I think that we should also consider that, given our technology today, there are lots of negative consequences that can be prevented. For example, it is now easier to protect ourselves from the attack of man-killers. As seen in the documentary, we can use technology to our advantage: we can use cameras to monitor animal movement. In spite of the presence of technology, though, we should not abuse nature just because there are ways to prevent its wrath.
MARTIN ALEXANDER F. CRUZ
2015-08545
STS-THX
I most definitely agree with the stand made towards the end of having to both understand and respect nature, and staying away from greed and corruption.
The three given stories are proof that nature has almost dictated that clashes between man and nature are almost inevitable. Since the dawn of time, survival has always been humanity’s goal in the world, but we have to realize that it is the goal of every other living thing in this world. Our survival does not have to come at the cost of being nature’s greatest destroyers. I believe that, as we humans are the ones capable of processing information more thoroughly and applying the information we gain from our daily interactions, it is our duty to preserve the rest of the living things that exist in our planet. I don’t think it’s particularly hard to fight the sweet spot in between improving upon ourselves in terms of science and technology, and making sure that nature stays undisturbed.
Patrick Angelo Gan
2015-05702
STS THY
It seems like that the supernatural and nature always have been intertwined throughout stories in different cultures, yet it only boils down to one thing – importance. In another perspective, these stories show the importance of nature in creating culture, stories, and life. I seems like a paradox, putting reviled beasts and nature (being it the source of life and all) in one story.
At the end of the day, it’s up to us humans to drive the course of nature and how we become efficient and, worthy stewards of the Earth.
Erwin Mate, THY, 2012-30127
We usually stereotype ourselves in theses wild animals especially in the account of folklores (or even non-fictional) of their violence and killing. Have we ever wondered that there are certain reasons why this violence remains ruthless? They might have done it in specific and logical reasons such as the threat from human nature or extinction of their needs due to human carelessness. I have seen wild animals being domesticated, honestly speaking. I would become very sentimalist if I ever hinder the killing of these wild animals or were-beasts even if they killed a great number of people. I wanted to point that these wild animals must be domesticated freely (similar to their adapted wild life) so that they would not search for food in other means due to extinction, might feel the love and concern that might re-track their violence, and protect humanity from straying in the forests and from their mortal sin of killing these ferocious animals.
Jaquelyn F. Vidal
2015-01581
STS THY
I do agree with the two rules. In a perfect world, we would live in harmony with nature and preserve the natural balance of things. But in reality, people are selfish. We forget that all our actions have consequences, and that the Earth is not as resilient as we imagine it to be. All our actions and developments have the goal of bettering our lives, and preventing us from going extinct; we fail to realize that it works both ways, and that in our pursuit against our extinction we may be causing it to happen to Nature instead.
The relationship between the man and nature is not 2 sided and the Earth needs us to fight its battles. I believe the first step in this is realizing how great our responsibility is towards nature, and how all our actions can have major consequences.
Man and nature. Man is a part of nature, is he not? But he acts as if he is dominant over nature, he uses and abuses nature like there’s no tomorrow. He thinks only of himself and does not find compromise. We, man, need nature to survive but nature has its own way of surviving without the help of man. We need nature but nature does not need us. So why do we act as if nature actually owe us everything that we try to take everything away from it? Until the day man realizes this, i’m pretty sure we’re going on a downhill path to extinction.
It is very interesting how these creatures are perceived in different ways sometimes to the point of exaggeration. Although their feisty actions makes people fear them, it is expected that they a born to that kind of nature. We should learn to value these creatures and let them live their lifestyle with safety precautions for humans. A great respect for biodiversity should be established and a constant reminder.
Danielle Anne A Cruz 2014-53998
STS THX
To be perfectly honest, I thought that it was weird that we were discussing were-beasts in class. I thought that they were simply myths. I did not think that they actually have an impact on science and society.
Pertinent to the discussion of were-beasts is the concept of survival. Were-beasts are essentially meat-eaters. They thrive on human flesh. Although these were-beasts are just myths, what surprised me during the discussion is the actual existence of real stories on “man-eaters”. I know that there are animals which can harm people. However, I did not think that there were actually animals which thrived on human flesh just like the were-beasts were supposed to (if they actually existed).
These accounts depict such animals as monsters. But if we take into account the ecological consequences, one would understand these incidents more. All organisms on earth affect one another. I agree that when the worlds of different organisms collide, there would be huge ecological consequences as exhibited in these infamous stories of man-eaters.
Vallesteros, Veatriz Rafaelle
2012-22043
STS THX
Brought about by the continuously growing population in the world, people’s demand on resources are not sufficed by what we have due to a relatively higher rate of population growth as compared to resources growth. During times when individuals desperately need resources and do not have enough means to obtain such, desperate actions emerge which eventually could result to threatening nature. I agree with the two rules given since if such actions were tolerated, individuals could also be harmed since the nature that they are abusing and is in threat of being gone and useless, is also a necessity for their own survival. Instead of being greedy on obtaining personal interest, individuals must work hand in hand in cultivating and preserving nature.
Czeskian Realo
2012-31938
STS THX
We humans like to think that we can do almost anything because after all, we perceive the whole world as a big jungle, and we are the kings of the place.
In each of the stories, I think that the big bad wolf is really us humans. Time and time again, history proved that wherever we go, we create havoc. We deplete resources without really thinking for other creatures of the planet.
Dolphin and whale killings in Taiji, Japan? Check. Minings that cause landslides? Check. Factories and vehicles that are the primary sources of air pollution? Check. Bird hunting that leads to the extinction of some species? Check.
And I don’t get why leaders of the world still have to argue on the concept of climate change, whether its a natural thing or it’s caused by humans. I mean, do we still have time to argue? I don’t think so. Because whether or not it’s natural or caused by humans, the problem lies in the fact that it is now here, and it’s already affecting us. No argument in that. What we should all discuss now is how we will address the problem. Fast.
It is high time that we humans stop being the big bad predators of the world. Let us start caring, for a change.
Mary Joy Fernandez
2012-35490
Disturbed food webs are probably the cause why those lions resorted into eating human flesh. Since there are less animals in their area to hunt down then humans suddenly appear in their line of sight, and they are famished, they had then a source of food. It’s because of survival that made them eat whatever they can in their surroundings. Just like in some cases of cannibalism. People who wants to survive when they got in a situation where there’s no food available or they trapped somewhere where their food is limited then gone in a few days; they have no choice but to eat other people. It’s a matter of live or die.
Aljon Carlos. Callo III
2015-09922
STS – THX
I grew up listening to stories made by the elders in our family mostly about aswangs, spirits and other beings that are not meant to exist in this world by any means. These stories include how one must not go to bed without eating food, for your spirit will enter the rice bowl and not come back, or how one must always say “tab-tabi po” to not displease possibly wondering spirits especially at night. There is also the local tale of a half snake, half man beast lurking in a shopping mall that feast on women changing on fitting rooms. Filipinos are no different in experiencing this type of phenomena.
It is also intriguing to know that we have local versions of these beings such as ‘sirena’ for mermaids or ‘duwende’ for dwarfs, making one wonder that if this phenomena are experienced only dispersely, why does the concept reach the different parts of the world? The most common thing in these depictions though, is that these beings only come after humans after their habitats are disturbed or destroyed. True or not, we human beings should not be inconsiderate of the conditions of others, not just out-worldly beasts but of animals as well. I agree that knowledge and respect should be observed so that we can live harmoniously.
I grew up listening to stories made by the elders in our family mostly about aswangs, spirits and other beings that are not meant to exist in this world by any means. These stories include how one must not go to bed without eating food, for your spirit will enter the rice bowl and not come back, or how one must always say “tab-tabi po” to not displease possibly wondering spirits especially at night. There is also the local tale of a half snake, half man beast lurking in a shopping mall that feast on women changing on fitting rooms. Filipinos are no different in experiencing this type of phenomena.
It is also intriguing to know that we have local versions of these beings such as ‘sirena’ for mermaids or ‘duwende’ for dwarfs, making one wonder that if this phenomena are experienced only dispersely, why does the concept reach the different parts of the world? The most common thing in these depictions though, is that these beings only come after humans after their habitats are disturbed or destroyed. True or not, we human beings should not be inconsiderate of the conditions of others, not just out-worldly beasts but of animals as well. I agree that knowledge and respect should be observed so that we can live harmoniously.
STS THY
2014-06696
Preserving nature and avoiding, or outright not be greedy and corrupt is a better way than anything else. However, balance is not about everything being peaceful or everyone being happy. That is not the case for equilibrium. I believe that balance can only be achieved when one is happy, and the other is sad. One is smart, one is not. One is generous, one is corrupt. One is born, one dies. It is the complete cycle of nature. And I believe everything is at a balance, if not the “evil” things are overpowering the “good” things.
But let us know what “balance” is and what “justice” is for nature. Preserving nature is justice; when animals strike humans due to human’s fault, it is balance. I believe that it is not in the ecology of werewolves or were-beasts in general, it is how what justice we can do for nature. But of course, to have “equilibrium”, there is “injustice”, and to balance out this injustice, nature strikes back.
Gyle Tampil
STS THY
2015-00320
Ecology of Werewolves
It is saddening to admit that indeed, conflict arises between humans and animals when they come into contact with each other. And I must agree that as humans, the only way for us to avoid such conflict is to respect nature and to get ourselves away from greed and corruption. We should know our limitations as to what extent can we benefit from nature. Going beyond our limitations because of limitless wants and desires can break the balance between both worlds, which might result to consequences that would eventually backfire to man.
Unfortunately, while all these things might sound very promising, it is actually very hard in our nature as humans to determine and to limit ourselves what’s ours and vice versa. Maybe because we find ourselves superior and in control of this in this world, excluding the fact that we are just one part of the big world.
Orquiza, Raymille Darra T.
2014-61509
STS THX
Ecology of Werewolves
It is saddening to admit that indeed, conflict arises between humans and animals when they come into contact with each other. And I must agree that as humans, the only way for us to avoid such conflict is to respect nature and to get ourselves away from greed and corruption. We should know our limitations as to what extent can we benefit from nature. Going beyond our limitations because of limitless wants and desires can break the balance between both worlds, which might result to consequences that would eventually backfire to man.
Unfortunately, while all these things might sound very promising, it is actually very hard in our nature as humans to determine and to limit ourselves what’s ours and vice versa. Maybe because we find ourselves superior and in control of this in this world, excluding the fact that we are just one part of the big world.
Orquiza, Raymille Darra T.
2014-61509
STS THX
Well, because of the evolving society, we tend to neglect the things that we should preserve as it is. Some things are really meant to stay like that because wants you try to interact with it, different possibilities of consequences will occur. It may be a big discovery or on the other side, a massive mistake. Everything that we have today are the results of the interaction between the sector of science, technology, nature and of course, the society. The more we try to find a way to live longer, the more we are just proving that being alive is a challenge. Maybe, in the near future; half animal half human is just a normal thing. (who knows?)
Moreover, the countless times that we always let ourselves be involved in the land where (wild) animals live, may contribute to their intelligence that they should also do what humans can do. That’s the time that “prehistoric era” will eventually happen again. I just hope that we should not let ourselves be tempted and just be contented of what we have; if it’s for the animals, it’s for the animals not for the humans to trespass.
Arianne Rose S. Agustin
2013-05202
STS-THX
The two rules are interconnected and mutually affect each other. Violation of the first rule often is caused by the influence of the twins – greed and corruption. As men start to exploit nature and its resources, and become richer from this, greed and corruption override them. On the other hand, the second rule could be seen to be the seeds that cause violations against the first rule. Corrupt people practices, even those that do not necessarily directly relate to nature, in the end eventually still harm the environment one way or another. This is inevitable because nature is all around us and therefore, environmental consequences will always be present and cannot be escaped. Hence, the two rules go hand and hand and must be both followed together.
Ultimately more than being rules to be enforced and abided by, these must be rather embedded in one’s way of life. By doing this so, these “rules” become more meaningful and fulfilling.
Sophia Bianca Bautista Ramos
2012 – 27241
STS THX
It is easy to say “do this; don’t do that.” It is easy to say “respect and understand”, and to mention the words “greed” and corruption. I believe most people in the world would agree with the two points outlined in this post, and most people would believe they generally act in accordance.
The issue here is not the adherence to “do this; don’t do that,” but the identification- the determination of what constitutes “this” and what constitutes “that”. What people need most to realize now is not to “respect and understand Nature” and “stay clear from greed and corruption,” because most people have already realized and accepted this. What people need most is to realize what respect and understanding and greed and corruption really mean, and to realize when an act follows and when it does not. Most people would believe they share the same principles and act in ways that already align, but the truth is sometimes they do not, and it is the failure to realize this that kills Nature.
Underlying the first issue is one of gravity and scale. Most people believe that their acts do not violate the two rules simply because the acts are too small and insignificant in relation to the whole scheme of things. The problem however is that MOST people believe so, and thus when a small and “insignificant” act is repeated multiple times through a large number of people over an extended period of time, then the “insignificant” makes an obvious and significant impact.
In general we know what to do, but we must speak not of generalities but of specifics.
Ava Lee
2014-01650
STS THX
Humans called the animals as beast if they killed some persons, but we only based our judgement based on our perception. We don’t think of what the situation was, because animals are not that bad as we thought. They only become furious if we did something. The animals only react for our action. They don’t think the way we think of and that’s the reason why they attacked humans. When they felt that their territories are being conquered by others then they will do everything to protect their territories.
In order to avoid these attacks we must learn to distant ourselves to their territories. And as humans, we should respect the animals. We should understand that animals seek for prey and most of the time we are hunting their prey, so they become aggressive as we come closer to where they are hunting.
Caracas, Joseph Renier O.
2015-03473
STS THX
Circumstances wherein man and nature must interact cannot be avoided. Resources like food and supplies that provide us with our daily living are and always have been extracted from the earth. What man can do is develop a healthier relationship with nature, being the one with the power to compromise. I agree that we must first respect and understand nature and steer clear of greed and corruption — nothing good ever comes from the twins. When we hurt and attack nature we inflict even more damage on ourselves as beings dependent on it for so much. We must set our limits and stick to them. We have knowledge and free will and should act accordingly. Wild animals have only their instincts to follow as they were wired to. It is quite obvious who the real monster is in this situation.
Abigail Zara
2014-32873
STS THX
These beasts are naturally meat-eaters. It is just that because of human activities which invaded their space that made them go beyond their territories. The boundaries of their preying area were distorted that they became astray – including humans to their food basket. They are not like people who have the capacity to differentiate which could be eaten from not; for them, all kinds of meat – from mice to human beings – are essentials to satisfy their hunger and be able to survive
Allen Renaldo O. Cruz
2012-32153
STS THX
Man is often blamed to be a greedy monster, while nature is his innocent victim. But is man not a product of nature? For millions of years, humans were shaped by nature through natural selection, and it made them develop large brains makes them capable of experiencing greed and using the earth’s resources to their advantage.
Perhaps a consequence of having an intelligent species is that the species is always prone to destruction and greed. Many people believe that the world is better off without us humans, but let us say we were wiped from the face of the earth and only the “innocent” animals remain – if an animal evolves into intelligence like us, they will also become capable of greed and earthly destruction. Maybe this destruction is really just an inevitable part of how nature works.
Jed Patrick P. Datu
2012-58445
STS THY
I strongly agree that respecting and understanding nature is a key to prevent the absoulte extinction, both of the “monsters” and human beings. Setting limits up to where people should explore nature is a big thing to prevent disturbance of the natural habitat of these animals. Once their habitats are invaded by humans, change of the way they are living is inevitable. They are obliged to adjust and therefore may result to unwanted actions, especially towards us humans. Invasion and destruction of their habitats are one of the arguments why these “beasts” result to attacking and killing humans. We should control how far we can go to explore and discover nature, and this is where we should avoid greed and corruption. Greed and corruption might be a reason why humans tend to invade the habitats of these animals. Building something for their own benefit might not be beneficial for the animals occupying the area, therefore resulting to violence or “attacks”.
Kathrina Ann S. Nagayo
2015-01019
STS THX
It’s true– we really need to respect nature, and a lot of that can come easily when greed and corruption are out of the picture. However, with the fast-growing population, it seems like man will be forced to exploit nature more than we should in the near future. The irony is, when we resort to exploiting nature to provide for our needs in the short run, we’re also killing ourselves in the long run, as we slowly destroy the very source of the things we need to live.
It’s definitely a challenge for man. Do we regulate exploitation for the sake of the future generation, and sacrifice living standards in the present (and many people seriously need an improvement in living standards)? Or do we exploit all we need now, and leave the future generation to think of a solution on its own?
Whatever one’s judgment, perhaps Keynes’s words can provide some insight– “In the long run, we are all dead.” Not just man, but even the earth will die. Then what?
^Whoops I forgot to put my section.
Kristine Larissa Yu
STS THY
2013-14910
I find it kind of funny that when we invade these animals’ territory, it’s seen as a natural occurrence and isn’t really a big deal to most of us; but when animals get their revenge, it’s a big deal and it is seen as “unnatural”. Yes, I am bothered and even scared of these animals getting their payback, but at the same time, I understand where they are coming from. These animals only want one thing: for us to STAY OUT OF THEIR TERRITORY. We must accept that we, alone do not own this world. We have cohabitants and they, too deserve some space in this world. If we deny them of their right, then we must face their wrath. What goes around comes around.
Jean Mariz S. Villanueva
2014-21180
STS THX
It is quite funny how we are relatively in the same type of family as these were-beasts. They are mammals, and so are we. Yet there lies a great difference in the fact that we possess free will and they are merely driven by instinct. We use this as an explanation to the fact that these scary creatures attack innocent people that live close to their habitats. However, as I have reflected on this lesson, isn’t it our concern as free-willed creatures to break down the stereotype on large animals as we immediately categorizing them as deadly? The instinctive action of these creatures to feast on our flesh is due to the fright that they sense. We have labelled them as enemies; thus they choose to do the same for us. This limits the freedom that these animals have of living peaceful lives. They too are our co-inhabitants in this world, so why must we deprive them of due respect? I feel that there must be a drastic movement to create a better understanding of these animals. As cliche as this may sound, they are simply misunderstood creatures. It is upon us to create an understanding that they deserve a free life just like each of us possess.
DYCHIAO, Robyn Gayle Kho
2015-07342
STS THX
I believe that it all just comes down to respect. If we, as humans, understand that these creatures, the animals, also inhabit the planet, there can be balance. If we don’t disturb them, they won’t disturb us. If we don’t feel the need to just kill them, they won’t feel the need to just kill us out of the blue. In a way, it’s mutual – it’s just that we’re more capable of thinking. And that’s exactly why we should take responsibility. It’s all just a matter of give and take.
It’s quite frustrating that we expect them to not act violently when we constantly invade and violate their space. Yes, these creatures have the natural instinct to kill and prey on others. Yes, they can be deadly and dangerous. But it’s a given that we’re not the only ones living on Earth, and we’re not the only ones who have to survive. They also exist and they also need to live. If we just know how to respect them and set limits for ourselves, then we can all live in peace.
SUNGA, Ma. Yna Shiela C.
2015-01514
STS THX
The stories such as the Ghost and the Darkness, and Saddam the Killer Chimp clearly show us the effects and consequences when humans disrupt the habitat or cross the territory of the animals. In the Ghost and the Darkness, the men were building the railway near the territory of the lions and this probably provoked them into attacking and eating humans. This is similar to the story of Saddam the Killer Chimp. The village was near the place where Saddam lived. The chimp attacked the villagers and killed some of their children as well.
The ecosystem of an area can be greatly affected when habitats are destroyed and when certain organisms in the area become endangered or extinct. Not only are the creatures in that area affected, but we will be as well. The ecosystem of one area affects a larger scale ecosystem which will create a domino effect. I think that it is essential that we strive to preserve the natural habitats of animals and to be more concerned about the condition of our environment.
Chelsie Alison Ong Ty
2015-07282
STS THX
With the passage of time, human civilization and technology has advanced so much, usually at the expense of nature. We take more resources and much more quickly expend them that nature can’t keep up. By destroying forests and building industrial, commercial, or residential zones in their wake, we alight in the territory of wild animals. These areas are usually their safe havens and with them gone, beasts would look for new sources of food, or they would attack the trespassers for going in their territory.
The first rule should be realized in today’s society. Respecting nature has been consistently voiced out, but do we actually make ourselves aware of this and live it everyday? We complain but we usually never do a thing to adhere to this.
I agree with the second rule to stay away from greed and corruption; after all, these two are responsible for the conflict between man and nature. By being inefficient in the use of our resources, wanting and taking more than we could possibly need and what nature can replenish, and letting our selfish desires take over without caring about the environment, we let the beasts called greed and corruption control us.
If we abuse nature so much, would the attacks on humans could be considered as nature’s vengeance? If we suppress the twin beasts in us, would the beasts in the wild leave us be?
Marian Nicole D. Vale
2015-02465
STS THX
While it is important to survive, it is also important to note that such actions for development must also be sustainable. Man tends to forget that naturally, man and nature are co-existent with one another, and must thus hold an interrelationship with one another. It should be a give and take relationship. And when this equilibrium from the two is disrupted, a bigger issue is formed-climate change, endangering of different species, etc.-nature becomes aggressive. The needs that were ones easily provided for by nature, has now become a difficulty for man.
Man needs to understand that the relationship that it has with nature, is an interdependent one. Thus, man needs to take a hold of its greed, protect the environment and conserve its fruits, for the benefit of both sides. Man must learn the idea that it is not higher with nature, thus allowing it to take advantage of it all the time. In the end, man must learn how to respect the environment and be distant from greed and corruption.
Trexia Mae D. Lechoncito
2013-43968
STS-THX
I certainly agree that man must respect and understand nature. I hate that humans think so highly of themselves. The belief that man is above all leads to greed and corruption. People believe that nature was given to them at their disposal.
Rodgee Abaya
2011-01695
STS THX
I think that there shouldn’t be any conflict at all between man and nature. Man is not just surrounded by nature, but is a part of it. Therefore, any action of man against nature will ultimately circumvent back against him.
This supposed conflict is due to the survival of the fittest. Species will do anything just to survive. The struggle for life within an ecosystem is acute. Thus, humans formed civilizations and altered ecosystems just to suit their needs. However, their alteration of the natural ecosystem had adverse effects on several other species. These several other species, looking for ways to survive, then came back to humans. Humans ultimately won.
These other species that attacked humans, due to their supernatural-like propensity, then became folklore and myths.
I believe that man still need to flourish and survive. However, he must remember the worth of nature and appreciate its beauty and form. He must look at it not just as a source of resource, but as a complex phenomenon that made life possible.
Man cannot exist without nature, but nature can get by itself without man.
Terrence Ferdinand S. Nagaño
2015-04845
STS THX
I definitely agree that humans should respect and understand nature, and should stay away from greed and corruption in order to avoid the absolute extinction. Humans should not be selfish and think that they are more superior than nature. Instead, they should build and maintain a harmonious relationship with nature.
John Steven Magboo
2011-55727
STS THX
Conflicts between man and nature have always resulted to tragedy. We cannot deny that besides himself, man’s greatest enemy is nature. If men continue to be have greed, thus promoting corruption denying the respect and refusing to understand the ecology of nature, then there comes the conflict. The question now is, who gets to survive?
Yzzabel Danganan
STS THY
2015-03634
Coexistence of different species in a dynamic world holds its complications indeed.
This can never be emphasized enough, given how it proves itself every single day, unknowingly to most. The world as we know it, is becoming even more human-centric than it should be; with most problems in Nature (esp to animals) being caused by human intervention. Survival and existence become recurrent words when it comes to the idea of living amongst other species.
In fact, the idea of “the right to existence and who holds it” has sparked numerous concepts present in pop culture. Like in the manga (Japanese pop comics) series “Parasyte”, “Tokyo Ghoul” and “Attack on Titan” (just maybe on the third one), where the stories stress (or at least in the background) the relationships between beings that both strive for survival. One’s survival though, would mean negatively for the other species; and this, in turn, builds the conflict. Of course an agreement cannot be settled as easily between them (unlike humans-humans who can understand each other quite well), so no known limits and boundaries whatsoever are formed; leading into more problems.
I do believe that for us humans to fully live peacefully amongst other animals, we still need to study and understand them and their nature, so we could try and adapt to them instead of them always adapting to us.
John Paul S. Pintor
2015-04170
STS THX
*How embarrassing. I sent this to the wrong blogpost the last time.*
I agree that all the cases were the result of the collision between man and nature. It is also true that for harmony to exist there must be respect for nature. This is of course easier said than done. People’s views on greed and corruption are very different. Some would argue that a company clearing forests to make plantations is not greed. It creates jobs and helps the economy of a country. Another person at the same time could argue that forests should be respected and should not be cleared. The problem is the difference in the views of people. It is and ever will be a continuing struggle on who has the right view.
Matthew Chua
2011-14753
STS THX
I definitely agree with the two rules stated above. By taking them to heart, I am sure no one would deny that the world would become a much better place, but that is just wistful thinking. I believe humans are selfish by nature. They try to get not only what they need, but also what they want thus disrupting the ecology. Conflicts between nature and man cannot be avoided for it is to survive. However, these conflicts can be lessened if man only realizes the importance of nature and learns to cherish it.
Chelsie Lauren T. Olaes
2014-13213
STS THY
The events depicted in this post clearly show that when nature and man collide, conflict usually arises. There are a variety of reasons to explain this, but one of the most likely is the conflict for space. A given area of land can only sustain a specific amount of life, and when both animals and man reside in that area, they must compete for resources. Up to a certain point they can live together without conflict, but due to greed of man, animals have no choice but to fight back. After all, animals only fight for the resources they need, unlike man who sometimes want to obtain more than they could use.
It is therefore important for man to maintain respect towards nature. We should keep in mind that on an evolutionary perspective, we are younger compared to these animals that we conflict with. If we only know how to control ourselves from hoarding the space they originally occupy, we would be able to avoid conflicts. After all, before man evolved to who they are now, there was an intricate ecological relationship between animals and nature. Who are we to barge in and ruin it all?
Marrian Deytiquez
STS THX
Man has always been in conflict with different entities, a creative writing course once taught me. Man vs. Himself, Man vs. Man, Man vs. Society—all of them would create a great story. One type of conflict, however, would create a disaster once it occurred in the realm of reality—Man vs. Nature.
Despite countless cases of loathsome animal cruelty and slaughter and the presence of several groups and organizations advocating for animal rights, animals, especially the endangered ones, are still being killed ruthlessly everyday. I agree with the reason behind all this that the article asserted, man’s lack of understanding of nature. If each one of us knows how nature works and is aware of the consequences of the acts we do to it (e.g. ecological imbalance resulting to the degradation and shortage of natural resources), we surely will not commit these acts anymore.
Adrian Jericson S. Jimenez
2014-77970
STS THY