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To be well used, creatures and places must be used…

“To be well used, creatures and places must be used sympathetically, just as they must be known sympathetically to be well known...The "animal scientist" to whom it is of no concern whether or not animals suffer will almost inevitably aid and abet the destruction of the decent old ideal of animal…” quote by Wendell Berry
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“To be well used, creatures and places must be used sympathetically, just as they must be known sympathetically to be well known...The "animal scientist" to whom it is of no concern whether or not animals suffer will almost inevitably aid and abet the destruction of the decent old ideal of animal husbandry and, as a consequence, increase the suffering of animals. I hope that my country may be delivered from the remote, cold abstractions of university science.”

Wendell Berry

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Compassionate use of nature requires understanding and empathy for both creatures and places, avoiding indifferent scientific exploitation.

In simple terms: Use nature with empathy and knowledge.

Key Takeaway

Treat ecosystems with respect.

Themes

environment ethics compassion

Mood

thoughtful concerned

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • farming practices
  • research ethics
  • policy making
  • education
  • conservation

Key Concepts

ecology human-animal relations

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we ensure scientific work respects animal welfare?
  • What policies promote compassionate stewardship?
A Different Perspective

Neglecting empathy can lead to harmful exploitation.

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