Mikki McKay

PHIL 2300
Final Paper

When people think back to their childhood, some might say they remember recess or

going to see Santa at the mall. I have those memories, but one memory that stands out, was

the time I spent in summer school when I was in elementary. Summer school probably does not

sound like the best time, but it was for me. Particularly because we spent most afternoons

doing crafts, playing sports or being in the garden.

Mrs. Allred was the sweetest woman who loved tending the school garden. She had

rows of vegetables and a variety of flowers; many I have never heard of before. She made

gardening fun for us kids while teaching us the importance of patience and care. Now more

than even, I realize how vital it is to have people like Mrs. Allred teaching children these lessons

to care for fragile things around them. There are many benefits to exposing children to this type

of interactive learning. Studies have shown that the benefits of introducing gardening to

children at a young age, helps them acquire and improve crucial skills (Kara, D 2020). Gardening

helps children learn how to work with others and become curious and conscious of the nature

to name a few. Whether it be tending a garden or hiking the mountains, these types of

activities help children view the world as something that is alive and vital.

I would think Carolyn Merchant would agree with this idea, as she believed that it

mattered how we conceive nature, and what our imagery of it is. She was a professor of

environmental history, philosophy, and ethics at the University of California at Berkeley. She is
most famous for her theory and book on The Death of Nature where she discussed how our

ideas of nature and our relationship with nature has changed over time. Over time, humans

begin to view the earth as a mechanistic conception which is seen as a thing or machine, and

not alive.

In her book, Carolyn Merchant asks, “What narratives (stories) do we tell of nature and

our relationship to it? To be truthful, many times the stories we tell do not reflect reality. The

media has the ability to accurately educate not only children, but everyone about the

significance of taking care of the earth. Media is a powerful and influential tool, that can reach

people all over the world. People of all ages should be aware of environmental issues to some

extent. It is irresponsible to change and manipulate the elements of nature, and at the same

time, believe nature will heal and sustain itself.

By giving people the knowledge and tools to see the benefits of a healthy planet, it will

give humans a reward worth fighting for. Most times people are really focused and are

interested in what they are watching or listening too, but afterwards, do not give it a second

thought. Everyone retains information differently, and therefore media is so important in this

effort. Just as the world is changing, so should the way we teach and inspire. There are endless

opportunities to educate people like by investing in community gardens, office greenhouses, or

more animated films on the subject. This would encourage more people to rethink their

everyday decisions and how it impacts the world.

If more people did little things every day, the earth would be that much closer to being a

better place to live to for everyone, and every living thing. Just like many habits, this is one that
should be continuously shared and told, because ultimately how we view nature, effects how

we treat it.
Work Referenced

Kara, D. (2020, May 22). The Importance and Benefits of Teaching Gardening to Children
Toddlers to Preschoolers. Retrieved December 11, 2020, from
https://www.montessorinature.com/importance-benefits-gardening-children-toddlers-
preschoolers/