Something “natural” is perceived as more positive than something “artificial.” A diet rich in “natural” foods, fruits, and vegetables is better than one based on “artificial” foods like pastries and sausages. A lifestyle of a “natural” diet and exercise is healthier than lounging around and eating donuts. But it’s difficult to determine what exactly is considered natural and what is not. Is it natural for a person to use fire or wear clothes? Can human beings even be considered natural? The answer really depends on your point of view. Due to the lack of a clear definition, people have taken it upon themselves to choose what to praise as natural and condemn as unnatural.

An appeal to nature is a logical fallacy that occurs when something is considered true only because it is “natural.”

Appealing to nature can be dangerous. Sometimes, the argument is used to justify horrific deeds. War and violence have accompanied humankind since the beginning of history, but this is not a reason to consider them natural. Compassion and scientific and technological developments may not be natural, but they have helped us make the world a better place to live in. Just think of all the unnatural things we have come to embrace, such as not having to experience many infectious diseases or eating meals several times a day.