Concern for the environment Quote by Ted Steinberg
““It is wrong to draw a sharp line in one's imagination between the "nature" present on the Rocky Mountain front and that available in the suburbanite's own front yard. The natural world found on even the most perfect and stylized of lawns is no less real than that at the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Different, yes, but to draw too sharp a distinction between the sparsely settled world of Alaska and the dense suburbs of Levittown is a prescription for the plundering of natural resources. It is easy to see how the yard, conceived as less natural and thus less important than the spotted owl, is easily ignored. The point is underscored by research showing that, surprisingly, people who evince concern for the environment are more likely to use chemicals on their yards than those who are less ecologically aware. ””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Nature of the Suburban Landscape” by Ted Steinberg, 1995
The quote argues that seeing suburban yards as less natural leads to environmental neglect and paradoxical harmful behavior.
In simple terms: Treating lawns as less natural harms the environment.
Key Takeaway
Recognize all ecosystems as valuable.
Themes
environment
perception
conservation
urban ecology
human behavior
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
activist
When to use this quote
- urban planning
- home gardening
- policy making
- environmental education
Key Concepts
Ecological psychology
environmental ethics
cognitive bias
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your view of local nature affect your actions?
- Can you value suburban ecosystems equally?
A Different Perspective
Assuming some nature is less real can justify harmful practices.
