4. Nature and happiness

An Ecology of Happiness

You may feel that environmental protection is important, but that it is not easy and may not be beneficial at all. However, Prof. Lambin says that environmental protection satisfies human needs.
Prof. Lambin also wrote a few books for general readers while advancing his research. His first reader is his wife and two daughters who always give him appropriate advice.

With his wife and two daughters

With his wife and two daughters

In one of his books, An Ecology of Happiness, he uses scientific evidence to show how effective nature is in ensuring our well-being. For example, when we are hospitalized, being in a room that allows us to see nature through the window helps us heal faster than being in a room without a view of nature.
Our ancestors lived a life of hunting and gathering. Some say our ancestors passed a love of nature through their genes, and that is why we like to be in nature. Prof. Lambin says that going out in search of a natural environment is like going home for us.

In order to protect the environment, it is always important that we understand the seriousness of environmental issues and the significance of environmental protection. However, the vast majority of people are unaware of environmental issues. Prof. Lambin considers it important to encourage these people to take action. He wants to tell them that taking care of nature is in our best interests.

An Ecology of Happiness

An Ecology of Happiness

Have hope for future

When you see half a glass of water, do you think of it as half full, or do you see it as half empty? Prof. Lambin sees it as half full. He is ever optimistic, and he would like all children to share his optimism for the future.
Of course, there are many problems in the world. As we learned above, humans think about them and search for solutions. Prof. Lambin hopes that all children will see the bright side of things and create a sustainable, fair, and happy society.

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Prof. Eric Lambin

Japanese