Climate Quote by Roger Scruton
“My main argument is that environmental destruction comes when people externalise their costs and pass them on to future generations. That is obviously something that large enterprises do and they become large by doing it.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Ethics of Environmental Responsibility, 2005
Large firms often externalize environmental costs, shifting burdens to future generations and perpetuating ecological harm.
In simple terms: Companies shift environmental damage onto future people.
Key Takeaway
Demand corporate accountability for ecological impact.
Themes
environment
ethics
economics
Mood
critical
concerned
Type
analytical
political
When to use this quote
- policy making
- investment decisions
- consumer choices
- urban planning
Key Concepts
externalities
sustainability
intergenerational justice
Questions to Reflect On
- How can individuals pressure corporations to internalize costs?
- What policies best prevent cost externalization?
A Different Perspective
Market forces can resist regulation, limiting change.
