Part One: Student + Nature = The Biophilic Campus

In this two-part series, Tricia Roy discusses the importance of incorporating biophilia into your campus lifestyle. If you've ever enjoyed a scenic mountain view or a swim at the beach, you have probably experienced the phenomenon known as biophilia. Not only is biophilia a fascinating subject for interdisciplinary study, it just might help you do better in school.

By Patricia Roy — August 10, 2022

Tags: biophilic, campus, college life, nature, student

Part One: Student + Nature = The Biophilic Campus

What is "biophilia"?

The term "biophilia" means "love of life." Notable psychoanalyst, Erich Fromm, coined the phrase, referring to the positive vibes inspired by spending time with—or even just viewing images of—natural objects and surroundings. Later popularized by Harvard biologist E. O. Wilson, the presence of biophilia suggests that the innate love humans have for their natural environment is baked into their DNA.

Since the 20th century, recognizing the interconnectedness between species and their environments has prompted a wide range of studies. From the biological sciences to the arts and humanities, research shows the benefits of spending time in nature and bringing natural elements into the built environment. In this article, we introduce the foundations of biophilia and offer suggestions for finding it in your home- away-from-home, college campus, and dorm.

The Science

Iggy Pop wasn't wrong: humans have a lust for life. The pleasant feelings you get from seeing a rainbow, smelling fresh flowers, or walking along a beach may be more important for your mental and physical health than you realize. Scientists in various fields study the origins and effects of biophilic environments on mood, cognition, and overall satisfaction with life. The results suggest a much deeper relationship to the "more-than-human world" than we may expect.

For example, environmental psychology is a branch of social science that specifically studies the relationship between human psychology and the environment. Humans did not always live in the built environment we now inhabit; instead, our survival as a species necessitated carefully observing the natural forces around us. Those forces were much larger and more robust than the impact of early humans, and by almost every perceptive measure, humans lacked the powerful senses of their animal neighbors.

However, the large and complex brains of Homo sapiens adapted to their environment in compensation. Neuroscientists now assert that the cognitive processes telling us which plants to eat or which animals are safe to approach involve more than just rational thought. Emotions, specifically positive ones, developed to aid survival. Researchers now believe that emotional responses to a salubrious and beautiful natural environment — biophilia — evolved in our brains to make us instinctively seek out environments that benefit overall health and well-being.

Of course, the inverse is also true. Biophobia — an instinctual fear of certain elements of nature — provides negative reinforcement, leading humans away from dangerous settings, animals, and plants.

Juxtaposing the two concepts helps put them in perspective. While the attraction to colorful and sweet-smelling flowers might correlate to the nutritional benefits of ripe fruit, distaste for bitter flavors likely developed to prevent accidental poisoning, as poisons are often (though not always) bitter.

The Aesthetics

Improve mood
Lengthen attention span
Relieve mental strain and anxiety
Prompt healthy physical activity
Encourage sociability and community

For instance, one study found that simply looking at the color blue, the color of ocean water associated with calm in many cultures across the globe can increase creativity.

Understanding the origins of biophilia helps students apply it better on campus and beyond. In part two of this series, you'll learn concrete strategies and practical suggestions to help you incorporate this newfound knowledge and live your best biophilic lifestyle.

Patricia Roy

Patricia Roy is a writer and professor who has helped students succeed for over 25 years. She started her career as a high school English teacher and then moved into higher education at Tuition Rewards member school, Lasell University in Newton, Massachusetts. Her practical guidance and enthusiasm motivate and inspire students to fearlessly explore their own passions. Professor Roy is also a freelance writer and published poet.

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