Skip to content

Absurd Quote by Wendell Berry

“That we should have an agriculture based as much on petroleum as the soil-that we need petroleum exactly as much as we need food and must have it before we can eat-may seem absurd. It is absurd. It is nevertheless true.” quote by Wendell Berry
Download Open image
“That we should have an agriculture based as much on petroleum as the soil-that we need petroleum exactly as much as we need food and must have it before we can eat-may seem absurd. It is absurd. It is nevertheless true.”

Wendell Berry

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Unsettling of America, 1977

Reliance on petroleum is as essential as food for modern agriculture, exposing unsustainable dependencies.

In simple terms: Petroleum is crucial for modern farming, but it's unsustainable.

Key Takeaway

Reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Themes

agriculture environment sustainability energy food security

Mood

concerned hopeful

Type

analytical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • farm management
  • policy planning
  • urban gardening
  • renewable energy projects

Key Concepts

resource dependency ecological impact technological alternatives

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can agriculture thrive without petroleum?
  • What alternatives are viable now?
A Different Perspective

Transition may be costly and complex.

2.9 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Wendell Berry

Explore all 847 Wendell Berry quotes

More Absurd quotes

Browse all 1,644 Absurd quotes