Masanobu Fukuoka, a microbiologist by education, was a Japanese philosopher, a precursor of natural agriculture, and creator of the famous “do-nothing farming.” In The Dragonfly Will Be the Messiah, he shares not only the basics of his method but also a unique approach to nature in general – formed equally by a deep understanding of ecosystems, sensitivity, and a special bond he has with nature.
Despite being a microbiologist and having his roots in the laboratory, those who expect strong evidence and research will be disappointed – Fukuoka’s method is rather empirical, and though you can’t accuse him of lack of knowledge or experience, Fukuoka follows his intuition as much as observations.
But don’t be discouraged if you can’t grow anything and you’re not looking for farming advice – the most important and universal quality of Fukuoka’s thought is the incredibly mature approach to nature and his fierce fight for its protection. He views the ecosystem as harmonious cogs. Every plant and animal – even the smallest one, has its place and function. The lack of even one of them disturbs the balance and if it’s not restored in time, it causes further, very often far-reaching, consequences. The author claims that only when humans can view themselves as a part of a greater whole and pay nature the proper respect, only then any constructive change will be possible.