The true religion, it is said, is service to mankind; but…
“The true religion, it is said, is service to mankind; but this service seems to take the form of securing for him an unconditional victory over nature. Now this attitude is impious, for, as has been noted, it violates the belief that creation or nature is fundamentally good, that the ultimate reason for its laws is a mystery, and that acts of defiance such as are daily celebrated by the newspapers are subversive of cosmos.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote argues that treating humanity’s domination over nature as a religious goal contradicts the belief that nature is inherently good and mysterious, making such domination impious.
In simple terms: Dominating nature as a religious aim opposes the view of nature as good and mysterious.
Key Takeaway
Respect nature’s mystery; avoid treating conquest as sacred.
Themes
religion
environment
ethics
humanism
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
environmental
When to use this quote
- environmental policy
- technology development
- education curricula
- media narratives
Key Concepts
anthropocentrism
cosmic humility
mystery
Questions to Reflect On
- How does seeing nature as sacred change our actions?
- Can we balance technological advance with reverence for nature?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook humanity’s need for progress and survival.