why is there a distinction made between natural things and man-made things?

Question

isn't everything that's created on the earth, using products from the earth, natural?

Answer 1

I see what you are saying but natural means "naturally occuring," and there is a distinction because synthetic things have different properties than naturally occuring things (for example, synthetic diamonds versus real diamonds.) I study forensic science and in my field being able to tell the difference between natural and synthetic compounds is VERY important.

Answer 2

Nope, it's not the same. Man made seems to imply "man messed with nature", added chemicals, put things together to seem like natural, but overall the product is less than what mother earth provides on her own. Natural has the feel of from the earth, man didn't goof it up, and better for you. All of this matters in different ways and at different times. After all we are a world of advertisement nowadays.

Answer 3

They are all natural. However in case of food humans tweak it with additions of chemicals not present in the natural product. The distinctions is made so that people can choose what they want.

Answer 4

Yes, it is. And there's no real difference between a man-made dam and one made by beavers (except fo rscale).

However, by making a distinction between 'man-made' things and 'natural' things, it makes it easier for the environmentalists to have something to complain about ☺


Doug

Answer 5

God made things like mountains will last for ever. Man made things like cars, bridges, buildings, even the pyramids will not.

Answer 6

Cars don't grow, man must make them.

Answer 7

nature always wins and came first