From Nature to Culture and Back

In this chapter, we explore metaphors that scientists use to understand the complex relationship between nature and culture. Discussion of these metaphors illuminates the complexity of human evolution. The author argues for an entangled view in which biology and culture shape each other. This view is helpful in promoting dialogue between science and theology. Therefore, niche construction theory, especially its focus on affordances and agency, becomes central. The text illustrates how human evolution and cultural development are deeply intertwined, forming a rich tapestry of meaning.