Final answer:
Nature, having evolved through millions of years, exemplifies enduring and self-correcting systems likely to outlast many human-made constructs, which often lack sustainable design. Aligning human activities with natural systems may determine our long-term success.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that nature is the antithesis of artificial works and the artificial world built by humans is a subject of debate. While some philosophers, like Hegel, may draw a sharp distinction between natural beauty and artistic beauty, others emphasize the interconnectedness and the impact of human creations on nature. Humans do indeed shape nature through their actions, affecting local, regional, and global ecosystems. However, the robustness of natural processes and ecosystems, honed by millions of years of natural selection, suggests that they have a greater likelihood of enduring over time. Human constructs, while demonstrating the capacity for intelligent design, often lack consideration for long-term sustainability.
Considering the resiliency of the biosphere and the self-correcting mechanisms within natural systems, it can be argued that natural environments are better suited for long-term survival. Modern constructs, from cities to industrial practices, typically have not demonstrated the same degree of longevity and often lead to the depletion of natural resources and the alteration of ecosystems.
Therefore, while humans have indeed created an artificial layer atop the natural world, it appears that nature's systems, which are adaptable and long-lasting, will ultimately stand the test of time better than many human-made structures and practices that do not align with sustainable principles. Ensuring a successful future may very well depend on how well human activity can harmonize with the natural world.