Nature and Nurture: Understanding the Diversity of Biophilia

Biophilia, originally thought to be an innate and universal love for nature, is now understood as a temperament trait with significant individual differences influenced by genetics and experience.

2 minute read

January 15, 2025, 5:00 AM PST

By Clement Lau


Grandfather and young girl sitting on park bench.

BGStock72 / Adobe Stock

E.O. Wilson’s concept of biophilia, introduced in his 1984 book, proposes that humans possess an innate and universal love for the natural world. This idea has significantly influenced urban planning and architecture, promoting the integration of natural elements into human environments. However, Wilson himself later revised his stance, acknowledging biophilia as a set of learned behaviors rather than a singular instinct. Recent critiques, like those from Vanessa Woods and Melina Knuth, challenge the universality of biophilia, suggesting instead that it reflects individual differences and should be viewed as a temperament trait—a specific attraction to biodiversity shaped by both genetic and experiential factors.

Research supporting the Biophilia Reactivity Hypothesis highlights that not everyone responds positively to nature, with studies showing variations in stress levels when individuals are exposed to natural versus urban settings. For instance, while most participants experienced reduced cardiovascular stress in forests, a notable minority found such environments more stressful. These findings align with the hypothesis that biophilia is distributed along a spectrum, much like other psychological traits. Anecdotal and early research suggest that biophilic tendencies may emerge in childhood, influenced by both genetic predispositions and upbringing, as seen in children with a pronounced affinity for animals and nature.

This evolving understanding of biophilia opens doors to new research avenues, including the development of a Biophilia Quotient Scale to measure individual differences. Such a tool could explore the connections between biophilia and various life aspects, such as personality, career choices, and environmental advocacy. Understanding these individual differences could refine our approaches to conservation, urban planning, and education, tailoring them to better resonate with diverse human experiences of the natural world.

Monday, December 30, 2024 in Psychology Today

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Close-up of Donald Shoup during interview.

Legendary Parking Guru Donald Shoup Dies at 86

Urbanists are mourning the loss of a dynamic voice for parking reform and walkable cities.

February 10, 2025 - StreetsBlog NYC

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

February 11, 2025 - Mother Jones

Row of vehicles parked and plugged in at EV charging station.

Federal EV Charging Program Suspended

The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program planned to fund the construction of hundreds of EV charging stations across the country.

February 9, 2025 - Wired

‘Umeke Lā‘au: Culture Medicine art installation - giant wooden sculpture of calabash with people standing inside.

A Monument to Resilience: Native Hawaiian Art Installation Honors History and Healing

The towering ʻUmeke Lāʻau installation by Native Hawaiian artist Meleanna Aluli Meyer, unveiled at Honolulu's city hall, is a powerful symbol of cultural resilience and healing.

February 18 - University of Hawai'i News

Close-up of narge eucalyptus tree.

Rethinking Fire-Resistant Landscaping: Which Trees Should We Plant?

Fire experts emphasize the need to replace highly flammable trees like Mexican fan palms and eucalyptus with fire-resistant species such as oak, sycamore, and toyon, while also strengthening home fire defenses to reduce wildfire risks in California.

February 18 - Los Angeles Times

Aerial view of Fremont, California.

Fremont, California Criminalizes Homelessness, “Abetting” Encampments

Non-profits worry the ordinance, which does not explicitly exempt service providers, will have a chilling effect on unhoused residents and those who offer resources.

February 18 - The Guardian

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.

Planning for Universal Design

Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.