Microbes and Society

The microbial world is composed of many species belonging to very diverse groups. Most microbes are harmless commensals, while many others are essential for the development and maintenance of life and a wide range of ecosystems. Processes such as the decomposition of organic matter, mineralization, the return to the atmosphere of gases needed by various life forms for nitrogen and carbon fixation, and the conversion of those gases into forms that can be metabolized by other organisms are undertaken by microorganisms. There are also pathogenic microorganisms that, unfortunately, are the "most famous citizens" of this community. The dominant anthropocentric view during large periods of history has been responsible for our hostility towards microbial life. In this paper, we discuss the interaction between microbes and society, the human potential to modify life and control natural ecosystems, and the frequent interruption of evolution that results from these modifications. The rapid growth of the human population has led to the emergence of several new diseases and an increased incidence of nosocomial infections. At the same time, current sociopolitical conditions have made bioterrorism an issue of very real concern. Nonetheless, the harmful effects of pathogenic microorganisms and their perverse use are not reason to forget their benefits and usefulness