How Losing Nature From Our Language Shapes Our World

Executive Summary

• Research shows a significant long-term decline in nature-related words—such as “river,” “meadow,” and “bird”—in English-language texts since the 19th century, paralleling industrialization and urbanization.
• Studies by researchers including Miles Richardson and Pelin Kesebir suggest that language reflects cultural attention: as references to nature decrease, so may awareness and connection to the natural world.
• Cultural shifts, including increased urban living and digital engagement, have contributed to reduced direct interaction with nature, influencing both vocabulary and perception.
• Language plays a role in shaping environmental awareness: naming plants, animals, and ecosystems can strengthen observation, memory, and engagement with biodiversity.
• Efforts to reconnect language and nature—from citizen science platforms to education and storytelling—demonstrate that small, cumulative actions can help rebuild ecological awareness and cultural value.

FAQ

1. Why are nature-related words disappearing from language?

Nature-related words have declined due to broad cultural shifts, including urbanization, industrialization, and increased time spent in digital environments. As people have less direct interaction with natural landscapes, these elements appear less frequently in everyday speech, literature, and media.

2. What evidence shows a decline in nature language?

Studies analyzing large text databases, such as those conducted by Miles Richardson, have found that common nature terms have decreased by roughly 60 percent in English-language books since the 1800s. Additional research shows similar declines in songs, films, and fiction since the mid-20th century.

3. How does language influence our relationship with nature?

Language shapes perception by directing attention. When people regularly use specific terms for plants, animals, and landscapes, they are more likely to notice and remember them. Reduced vocabulary can contribute to a diminished awareness of ecological systems and biodiversity.

4. Is urbanization the only reason for this shift?

No. While urbanization plays a significant role, other factors include changes in recreation (more indoor and digital activities), shifts in economic relationships with nature, and evolving cultural priorities. Research suggests these factors work together rather than independently.

5. What are some ways people are reconnecting language with nature today?

Examples include citizen science platforms like iNaturalist and eBird, native plant gardening, and urban birdwatching. These activities encourage people to learn and use specific ecological terms in everyday contexts.

6. Why does naming species or natural features matter?

Naming helps transform abstract surroundings into recognizable entities. As noted by scholars such as Robin Wall Kimmerer, learning names can build relationships with the natural world, making it more likely that individuals will value and care for it.

7. Can language change help address environmental challenges?

Language alone cannot solve environmental issues, but it can influence awareness and behavior. By increasing the use of precise, nature-related vocabulary in education, media, and daily conversation, individuals and communities can support broader cultural shifts toward environmental stewardship.

Read the full article “How Losing Nature From Our Language Shapes Our World” by Reynard Loki and Danica Tomber

🔭   This summary was human-edited with AI-assist.