Book Recommendation: Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law by Mary Roach
Ever wonder how humans handle unruly wildlife? Dr. Tiffany Vora recommends reading the book Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law by Mary Roach.
In Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law (2021), celebrated science writer Mary Roach continues her humorous and deeply researched explorations of scientific oddities by turning her attention to the complex and often contentious realm of human-wildlife conflict. Here, we join Roach on a global journey to understand how humans attempt to manage nature's unruly elements, from marauding bears and cougars and gulls to—well, beans. And some other unexpected life.
Exploring Human-Wildlife Conflicts
I was particularly intrigued by some of the creative ways by which people attempt to manage conflicts between humans and wildlife (spoiler alert: lots of them don’t work. LOTS). From DNA-based forensic investigations to laser-loaded scarecrows to bags on sticks, Roach highlights some disturbing—and disturbingly hilarious—methods to track, deter, and eliminate so-called “problematic” wildlife.
The humor in many of these stories contrasts strongly with some of Roach’s more difficult investigations. That contrast left me with some disturbing ethical considerations. I challenge you to remain emotionless while reading the passage about a wildlife manager who has to decide how to handle two “problematic” bears. Should he kill the mother bear in front of the cub? Or the baby in front of its mother?
Image credits: Daphne Fecheyr via Unsplash
Ethical Quandaries and Conservation Concerns
The big question is, who gets to decide which living things deserve the label “problematic?” By personifying animals as "lawbreakers," Roach argues that we risk simplifying the intricate relationships between humans and wildlife into a binary of us versus them. Should we be trying to "outsmart" nature (where we very frequently fail), or should we seek ways to harmonize our existence with it? And consequently update our mental models and financial incentives around our interactions with the environment?
Despite the challenges and conflicts detailed in the book, Roach's narrative is imbued with a sense of hope and possibility. She highlights innovative conservation efforts that aim to foster coexistence rather than domination. From community-based programs that teach residents to live alongside wildlife to policies that prioritize habitat preservation, these initiatives offer a glimpse into a future where people and nature can thrive together. Many of these solutions lie in a combination of science, traditional knowledge, and community engagement.
Reconsidering Our Perceptions of Nature
Overall, Fuzz is a thought-provoking and entertaining exploration of human-wildlife conflict, brimming with Roach’s signature blend of humor and insight. It challenges readers to reconsider their perceptions of nature and the role technology plays in managing our relationship with it. By weaving together scientific research, philosophical musings, and real-world stories, Roach paints a nuanced picture of the complexities and opportunities inherent in our interactions with wildlife.
Maybe by updating our attitudes toward the astonishing diversity of fellow life on our planet, we can upgrade ourselves, too.
About Tiffany
Dr. Tiffany Vora speaks, writes, and advises on how to harness technology to build the best possible future(s). She is an expert in biotech, health, & innovation.
For a full list of topics and ways to collaborate, visit Tiffany’s Work Together webpage.
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