David Hawk's new book, Human Nature and the Potential in Nurture, investigates the intricate relationship between human behavior, social systems, and environmental decline. Drawing from academic research, professional practice, and international collaboration, the work argues that the same patterns of control and regulation governing human interactions often extend to humanity's treatment of the natural world, with significant implications for sustainability.
The book originated from Hawk's doctoral research in systems sciences at the University of Pennsylvania. In collaboration with the Institute of International Business at the Stockholm School of Economics, the project involved twenty firms and six governments. This extensive study reveals how strategic threats and regulatory approaches influence relationships among individuals and institutions, and how these dynamics shape environmental outcomes.
Rather than focusing solely on ecological metrics, Hawk analyzes the underlying social structures contributing to environmental challenges. The discussion spans interpersonal relationships, organizational behavior, and public policy, presenting a systems-based perspective on how societal actions affect broader environmental conditions. The book also incorporates observations from Hawk's professional background in engineering, planning, architecture, leadership development, and higher education, examining how institutions develop responses to complex problems—responses that sometimes reinforce the conditions they aim to address.
Regarding the book, Hawk stated, 'The work grew from a desire to better understand the relationship between human systems and natural systems, and how patterns of behavior influence both. The research sought to examine those connections through a systems perspective.'
Hawk's diverse career includes work in the United States, Sweden, Finland, Japan, England, China, and other international settings. He has contributed to projects in urban planning, business management, public policy, engineering, and executive education, serving as a professor, academic administrator, and program developer.
Human Nature and the Potential in Nurture is available through major online booksellers, including Barnes & Noble, Amazon, and Walmart, in print and digital formats.
