Air Quote by Wendell Berry
“The Captains of Industry have always counseled the rest of us "to be realistic." Let us, therefore, be realistic. Is it realistic to assume that the present economy would be just fine if only it would stop poisoning the air and water, or if only it would stop soil erosion, or if only it would stop degrading watersheds and forest ecosystems, or if only it would stop seducing children, or if only it would stop buying politicians, or if only it would give women and favored minorities an equitable share of the loot?”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Unsettling of America" by Wendell Berry, 1977
Berry critiques the false realism of industrial leaders who claim practicality while ignoring environmental and social harms, urging genuine realism that includes ecological and equity concerns.
In simple terms: Industrial claims of realism ignore real harms.
Key Takeaway
Demand true realism that protects people and planet.
Themes
environment
social justice
economics
politics
ethics
Mood
reflective
critical
concerned
Type
philosophical
political
environmental
When to use this quote
- policy making
- community activism
- corporate governance
- environmental education
Key Concepts
sustainability
equity
systemic critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we redefine realism to include ecological health?
- What policies would balance profit with equity?
A Different Perspective
Industrial realism often masks self‑interest and ignores long‑term costs.
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