Committing Atrocities Quote by Derrick Jensen
““So often, environmentalists and others working to slow the destruction are capable of plainly describing the problems (Who wouldn’t be? The problems are neither subtle nor cognitively challenging), yet when faced with the emotionally daunting task of fashioning a response to these clear and clearly insoluble problems, we generally suffer a failure of nerve and imagination. Gandhi wrote a letter to Hitler asking him to stop committing atrocities, and was mystified that it didn’t work. I continue to write letters to the editor pointing out untruths, and continue to be surprised each time the newspaper publishes its next absurdity. At least I’ve stopped writing to politicians.””
About This Quote
People can clearly see environmental crises yet feel paralyzed to act because solutions seem overwhelming and emotionally taxing.
In simple terms: Clear problems, but fear and imagination block action.
Key Takeaway
Recognition of problem ≠ capacity to respond.
Themes
environmentalism
psychology
activism
cognitive dissonance
Mood
frustration
determination
Type
reflective
political
When to use this quote
- writing op‑eds
- political lobbying
- community organizing
Key Concepts
emotional inertia
moral fatigue
Practical Applications
- focus on small, achievable steps
- collaborative brainstorming
Questions to Reflect On
- What small action could break the paralysis?
- How can imagination be cultivated in activism?
A Different Perspective
Even with clear problems, some issues truly lack feasible solutions, making paralysis understandable.
