Final answer:
The idea that human beings must compete for the spoils of nature stems from historical philosophical perspectives on natural rights and human nature, primarily influenced by thinkers like Hobbes and Locke. It also acknowledges the necessity of resource conservation and cooperation with nature to ensure sustainable growth and survival.
Step-by-step explanation:
Human beings must compete for the spoils of nature because the right of dominion over nature is a part of human nature. This statement stems from various philosophical perspectives on the relationship between humans and nature. Philosophers like Thomas Hobbes and John Locke have contributed to our understanding of natural rights and the social contract, influencing how we perceive our role in nature.
Thomas Hobbes believed that humans, in their natural state, have the right to use their power to preserve their own life and that this right becomes meaningful only under a sovereign power. John Locke, on the other hand, took a more congenial view, stating that in the state of nature, humans have the liberty to protect their life, health, liberty, and possessions and must maintain the rights of others in doing so. This historical context reflects the acceptance of competition as a natural part of human society.
However, the statement also reflects a shift towards recognizing the importance of conservation and the interdependence of all life forms. With the earth's limited supply of resources, humans must prioritize resource conservation and acknowledge that growth is not always sustainable, as we share the earth with other living things and are part of the natural world.
The idea of conquering nature has long been challenged by deep ecologists and other environmental thinkers who stress the importance of cooperating with nature for the sake of our own survival and the integrity of the earth's ecosystems.