Beyond "Firsties": Rethinking Human-Made Constructs of Ownership
The concept of "first come, first serve," colloquially known as "firsties," has long been ingrained in human social constructs, particularly when it comes to claiming ownership over something. However, upon closer examination, it becomes evident that this principle is not universally applicable or ethically justifiable. This essay explores the limitations of the "firsties" rule and urges a broader perspective that transcends human-centric notions of ownership.
The notion of "firsties" relies on the assumption that being the first to discover or possess something grants one an inherent right to keep or control it. While this may seem intuitive on the surface, it fails to consider the diverse and intricate ecosystems that existed long before human beings emerged. The existence of countless species predating humanity raises questions about the validity of our claim to exclusive ownership based solely on arrival time.
When we observe the natural world, we realize that other species do not adhere to the "firsties" principle. No lioness claims ownership over a prey solely because she was the first to spot it. No tree asserts exclusive rights to sunlight because it was the first to germinate. In the realm of nature, life operates on intricate systems of symbiosis and interconnectedness, where ownership is not solely determined by arrival time but by the dynamic relationships and needs of the ecosystem.
The Human made, Human Exceptions?
Human beings, however, have developed intricate systems of ownership, fueled by desires for power, control, and personal gain. This has led to complex legal frameworks that prioritize the rights of individuals based on concepts like property law. Yet, even within human societies, we see the limitations and inconsistencies in applying the "firsties" rule universally. Ownership disputes, historical injustices, and the recognition of indigenous rights all challenge the notion that first arrival inherently confers ownership rights.
To truly comprehend the ethics of ownership, we must shift our perspective beyond human-centric constructs. Recognizing the vastness and diversity of life on Earth, it becomes clear that our conception of ownership should be balanced with principles of stewardship, respect, and collaboration. Instead of claiming exclusive rights, we should strive for equitable coexistence with other species and acknowledge is not our responsibility, but our opportunity to be caretakers of the planet. An opportunity we need to undertake willfully together, not as an obligation or expectation.
The idea of "first come, first serve" is a human construct that, upon closer examination, reveals its limitations and inconsistencies. Our claim to exclusive ownership based solely on arrival time disregards the intricate ecosystems and diverse life forms that predate humanity. By acknowledging the interconnectedness of all life on Earth, we can begin to transcend these human-made constructs and adopt a more holistic view of ownership that encompasses stewardship, collaboration, and respect for the natural world. Only then can we strive towards a more balanced and sustainable coexistence with our home and all its inhabitants.
Stay Mindful
InteGritti
Chris Gritti
