Christianity Quote by Annie Proulx
““Before one cut a tree, mined a mountain, or dammed a brook, it was important to placate the spirit in charge of that particular situation, and to keep it placated. By destroying pagan animism, Christianity made it possible to exploit nature in a mood of indifference to the feelings of natural objects. Lynn White, Jr.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Environmental history, 1990
The passage argues that Christianity’s dismissal of pagan animism removed reverence for nature, enabling exploitative attitudes toward the environment.
In simple terms: Christianity replaced nature reverence, leading to exploitation.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate respect for natural spirits.
Themes
environment
religion
exploitation
Mood
critical
historical
Type
ethical
environmental
When to use this quote
- policy making
- conservation
- education
Key Concepts
animism
colonial mindset
Questions to Reflect On
- What modern practices reflect this shift?
- How can we restore reverence for nature?
A Different Perspective
Changing deep‑rooted belief systems is challenging.
