If human nature eventually is going to take the place of…
“If human nature eventually is going to take the place of nature everywhere, those of us who have been naturalists will have to transpose the faith in nature which is inherent in the profession to a faith in man-if necessary, man alone in the world.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human‑centered science must replace reverence for nature with belief in humanity’s capacity, especially if nature recedes.
In simple terms: Science may need to trust people more than nature.
Key Takeaway
Adapt scientific faith to human agency.
Themes
science
philosophy
humanism
Mood
reflective
concerned
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- environmental policy
- education
- research funding
- public discourse
Key Concepts
anthropocentrism
faith
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance respect for nature with confidence in humanity?
- What safeguards ensure human‑centered decisions remain ethical?
A Different Perspective
Human nature is unpredictable and may not fulfill the hoped‑for reliability.