Meaning of the word "self-preservation is the first law of nature" in English

What does "self-preservation is the first law of nature" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

self-preservation is the first law of nature

US /ˌselfˌprezərˈveɪʃən ɪz ðə fɜrst lɔ əv ˈneɪtʃər/
UK /ˌselfˌprezəˈveɪʃən ɪz ðə fɜːst lɔː əv ˈneɪtʃə/
"self-preservation is the first law of nature" picture

Idiom

the idea that the most basic and important instinct of any living thing is to protect itself from harm or death

Example:
He ran from the fire without looking back; after all, self-preservation is the first law of nature.
In a crisis, people often forget their manners because self-preservation is the first law of nature.