It is not the 'problem wolf' that is wrong

The re-emergence of wolves in Denmark has ignited a fierce debate, not just about wildlife management, but about humanity's fundamental relationship with the natural world. Author and nature coach Trine Vendelboe Juul argues that the current discourse, fueled by incidents like a runner encountering a wolf, reveals a deep-seated fear of nature itself.

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We need a nature understanding where humans are not outside of nature.

Juul criticizes the media's focus on terms like "problem wolf," suggesting it reflects a desire to keep nature at arm's length. She calls for a shift in perspective, urging people to embrace a "nature understanding" where humans are not separate from, but a part of, the ecosystem. This, she contends, is essential for a healthier coexistence with wildlife.

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It is therefore high time that we howl along again and not against the wolves.

The debate touches upon broader anxieties about the wild. While some see wolves as a threat, Juul views their presence as an opportunity to re-evaluate our place in the environment. The article frames this as a critical moment for Denmark to decide how much space it is willing to cede to wild nature, challenging the prevailing human-centric view.

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The debate reveals our fear of nature.