Where Do Camels Belong?

Synopsis

Where do camels belong? In the Arab world may seem the obvious answer, but they are relative newcomers there. They evolved in North America, retain their greatest diversity in South America, and the only remaining wild dromedaries are in Australia. This is a classic example of the contradictions of 'native' and 'invasive' species, a hot issue right now, as the flip-side of biodiversity. We have all heard the horror stories of invasives, from Japanese knotweed that puts fear into the heart of gardeners to brown tree snakes that have taken over the island of Guam. But do we need to fear invaders? And indeed, can we control them, and do we choose the right targets? Ken Thompson puts forward a fascinating array of narratives to explore what he sees as the crucial question - why only a minority of introduced species succeed, and why so few of them go on to cause trouble. He discusses, too, whether our fears could be getting in the way of conserving biodiversity, and responding to the threat of climate change.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Importance of Belonging

* Introduces the basic premise that all individuals have a need to belong.
* Explains how belonging contributes to our physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
* Real Example: A study by the University of Michigan found that people who feel a strong sense of belonging have lower levels of stress and better overall health.

Chapter 2: The Five Pillars of Belonging

* Identifies five key elements that foster a sense of belonging:
* Connection
* Acceptance
* Trust
* Empathy
* Opportunity
* Real Example: A program called "Roots and Wings" provides support and mentorship to students from underrepresented backgrounds, helping them build connections and feel a sense of belonging at their colleges.

Chapter 3: Creating Belonging in Diverse Environments

* Explores the challenges and opportunities of fostering belonging in diverse settings.
* Provides strategies for creating inclusive environments where individuals from all backgrounds feel valued and respected.
* Real Example: The United Nations has adopted the "Sustainable Development Goals," which include a focus on promoting equity and inclusion for all.

Chapter 4: Belonging and the Workplace

* Discusses the importance of belonging in the workplace for employee engagement, productivity, and innovation.
* Offers practical tips for managers and leaders to promote a sense of belonging among their teams.
* Real Example: Google has implemented programs such as "Project Aristotle" and "D&I Learning" to improve diversity and inclusion in the workplace and foster a sense of belonging for employees.

Chapter 5: Belonging in Our Communities

* Examines the role of communities in providing a sense of belonging for individuals.
* Highlights the importance of social connections, civic engagement, and community involvement.
* Real Example: The "Beloved Community" movement aims to create inclusive and equitable communities where everyone feels welcome and connected.

Chapter 6: Belonging and Education

* Explores the connection between belonging and academic success.
* Discusses the need for inclusive educational environments that support students from diverse backgrounds.
* Real Example: The "I Belong Here" campaign at the University of Texas at Austin provides resources and support to first-generation college students to help them feel a sense of belonging on campus.

Chapter 7: Belonging in Healthcare

* Highlights the importance of belonging in healthcare settings for both patients and providers.
* Examines how cultural sensitivity and empathy can improve outcomes and patient satisfaction.
* Real Example: The "PatientsLikeMe" platform connects patients with similar conditions, fostering a sense of community and support.

Chapter 8: The Future of Belonging

* Discusses the challenges and opportunities for creating a more inclusive and belonging world in the future.
* Emphasizes the need for ongoing collaboration and action to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to belong.
* Real Example: The "Global Belonging Initiative" is a collaborative effort to promote belonging at the individual, societal, and global levels.