Consequence Quote by Gilbert F. White
“Every intervention of man in the environment around him incurs some risk as to both favorable and unfavorable consequences. Every intervention is taken in the face of partial ignorance as to what its effects will be and involves uncertainty as to the ultimate outcome.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Earth as a Living System, 1975
Human actions affect the environment with uncertain outcomes, requiring cautious decision‑making.
In simple terms: Human impact is uncertain and risky.
Key Takeaway
Act with humility and assess unknowns.
Themes
environment
uncertainty
responsibility
Mood
analytical
cautious
Type
academic
policy-oriented
When to use this quote
- urban planning
- climate policy
- resource extraction
Key Concepts
systems theory
risk management
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance progress with ecological risk?
- What information is essential before intervening?
A Different Perspective
Predicting complex systems is often impossible.
