Four Fifths a Grizzly

What do you think of when you think of Nature?

Prolific author and National Geographic writer Doug Chadwick offers a fresh look at humanity's place in the natural world with his book, Four Fifths a Grizzly. In his accessible and engaging style, Chadwick approaches the subject from a scientific angle, underlining the message that, from the perspective of DNA, humans are not all that different from other creatures.

He begins by revealing the surprisingly close relationship between human DNA and that of grizzly bears, with whom we share 80 percent of our DNA. We are 60 percent similar to a salmon, 40 percent the same as many insects, and 24 percent of our genes match those of a wine grape. Chadwick reflects on the value of exposure to nature on human biochemistry and mentality, stating that we are not that far removed from our ancestors who lived closer to nature.

The book highlights examples of animals using "human" traits, such as tools and play. Chadwick concludes with two examples of the healing benefits of turning closer to nature: island biogeography and the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative.

Four Fifths a Grizzly is a reflection on humanity's rightful place in the ecological universe. Using personal stories, Chadwick recounts how he came to love and depend on the Great Outdoors and learned his place in the system of Nature. He challenges readers to consider whether they are separate from or part of nature. The answer, he suggests, is obvious: we are indivisible from all elements of a system that is greater than ourselves and should never be neglected, taken advantage of, or exploited.

This is a fresh and engaging take on humanity's relationship to nature by a respected and experienced author.