Human Culture And Soils

For at least 90% of its existence as a species, the human animal functioned merely as one member of a community of numerous species who shared the same environment. Early humans were adapted to subsist within the bounds defined by the natural ecosystem. By and large, our ancestors led a nomadic life, roaming in small bands, foraging wherever they could find food. They were gatherers, scavengers, and opportunistic hunters. Unlike their primate cousins who remained primarily vegetarian, humans diversified their diet to include the flesh of whichever animals they could find or catch, as well as a variety of plant products such as nuts, berries and other fruits, seeds, some succulent leaves, bulbs, tubers, and fleshy roots.