The hierarchical and unconscious mind: Reflections on the authenticity of nature

Abstract

The aim of the study reported by Van den Born and De Groot (Chapter 4) was to measure responses to concrete examples of human interventions in nature and to elicit the concepts that are relevant in the minds of the respondents. In addition, they measured the respondents images of relationships with nature. After discussing the examples of human interventions in nature, the respondents reactions to refined images of relationships with nature were recorded, with an emphasis on technological interventions. The reported results are interesting, and a good occasion to reflect on three issues (two substantial and one procedural): (1) which beliefs do people associate with human interventions in nature, (2) how are these beliefs constituted, and (3) how can we measure these beliefs? In order to appreciate this discussion, two key features of the human mind which are very relevant for most studies within the social sciences will be mentioned: the hierarchy of the human mind and the unconscious mind. A brief explanation of these concepts can shed light on the subject studied by Van den Born and De Groot.