In "The Lost World," Michael Crichton highlights how humans are distinct among animals in their propensity to engage in conflicts over beliefs rather than just tangible resources like territory or food. This tendency stems from the profound influence beliefs have on human behavior, which has been crucial for our evolution as a species. Unlike other animals, our motivations extend beyond survival instincts to include ideological battles, leading to complex social dynamics.

Crichton also expresses concern about the implications of this characteristic. He suggests that as our beliefs drive actions that may threaten our existence, there appears to be a troubling lack of self-awareness regarding the consequences of our behavior. This disconnect raises critical questions about our ability to confront the challenges posed by our beliefs and their potential to jeopardize our future.