Darwin once wrote about survival of the fittest, but I find myself wishing things were that simple. The old rules no longer apply. The new mantra does not stop at survival, the conqueror now strives to take all.
Of course, not every species aims for this new goal, but there is one species which has taken this creed to heart, helping to ensure that no other species has a chance to compete. I am of course referring to humans.
All species have the ultimate goal of reproducing, growing and colonising. In my opinion a fit species is one which is best able to exploit the boundaries and limitations of its environment without causing adverse impacts. These natural buffers tend to keep species from annihilating the planet with their sheer numbers. As humans no longer live within the natural environment we no longer see these natural barriers as something to stay within, for us they are something to be overcome.
Our intelligence has allowed us to strip forests, erode the land and kill all that stands in our way. Many of us can pretend that this has all been for the greater good. We can light up the sky with electricity, move ourselves around in our cars, enjoy a range of foods and return to a comfortable home at the end of a working day. However this is not the case for everyone. Throughout the world there are many examples of gross inequities which leave some people without freedom, without food or without a home.
As populations sure some have been extraordinarily successful. But as a species we have many populations which are just struggling to survive. As a species then we certainly cannot consider ourselves fit.
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