Skip to content

Cause and effect Quote by George Monbiot

“The problem is compounded by the fact that the connection between cause and effect seems so improbable. By turning on the lights, filling the kettle, taking the children to school, driving to the shops, we are condemning other people to death. We never chose to do this. We do not see ourselves as…” quote by George Monbiot
Download Open image
“The problem is compounded by the fact that the connection between cause and effect seems so improbable. By turning on the lights, filling the kettle, taking the children to school, driving to the shops, we are condemning other people to death. We never chose to do this. We do not see ourselves as killers. We perform these acts without passion or intent.”

George Monbiot

About This Quote

Source Essay: Climate Change and Moral Responsibility, The Guardian, 2015

Our daily routines unintentionally cause harm because we are disconnected from the consequences of our actions.

In simple terms: Everyday actions have hidden impacts.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and reduce indirect harm.

Themes

environment ethics responsibility

Mood

reflective concerned

Type

analytical ethical

When to use this quote

  • household consumption
  • transport choices
  • energy use
  • food sourcing

Key Concepts

moral psychology systems thinking

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we make invisible impacts visible?
  • What small changes could reduce harm?
A Different Perspective

Changing habits is difficult without visible feedback.

3.1 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by George Monbiot

Explore all 151 George Monbiot quotes

More Cause and effect quotes

Browse all 519 Cause and effect quotes