Discover the Sense of Unity
Rowan Hooper
(Fern Press released in the UK on June 4th.
Knopf released in the US on August 18)

The best books transform your understanding of the world. Togetherness
by Rowan Hooper offers not just fresh insights but a whole new lens through which to view existence. This remarkable work delves into the concept of symbiosis, exploring everything from cellular interactions to the Earth’s complex ecosystems, and revealing how biological cooperation is fundamental to all life—an aspect often overlooked by Western science for centuries.

Symbiosis, a concept often simplified during school lessons with seemingly miraculous examples such as corals and lichens, is vastly more common and integral than many realize. Rowan clarifies that it is a natural law consistently at play, repeated across environments and organisms.

Following his compelling arguments, he urges readers to reevaluate our perceptions of the natural world. By tracing the evolution of thought from Charles Darwin’s theories on competition to the often-neglected idea of cooperative survival among unrelated species, Rowan presents a nuanced understanding that honors both competition and collaboration.

In the gripping conclusion of Togetherness, Rowan addresses modern ecological crises, attributing many to our failure to appreciate how species interact symbiotically. He highlights scientists actively exploring ways to leverage these insights in environmental restoration efforts.

As a close collaborator of Rowan’s during my decade as podcast editor at New Scientist, my admiration for him may color this review of his third book. However, our podcast audience, The World, The Universe, and Us, can attest to Rowan’s enthusiasm for innovative concepts. Togetherness is not only ambitious but also immensely engaging.

Rowan’s call for an ecological perspective, supported by symbiotic principles, reflects his scientific background yet is enriched by insightful discussions ranging from Karl Marx’s thoughts on Darwin to Carl Sagan’s conversations with Lynne Margulis—truly a delightful read!