The modification of human society by natural systems: discontinuities caused by the exploitation of endemic species and the introduction of exotics

Environmental Health Perspectives
J Cairns, J R Bidwell

Abstract

Drastic reductions in Earth's biodiversity, old growth forests, top soil, clean water and air, and truly wild areas are occurring during a period when discussions of sustainable growth and sustainable production are becoming common. Using such terms as sustainable growth and sustainable production rather than the more accurate sustainable use of the planet leaves the impression that, with a little more skill, society can continue its present practices indefinitely. A number of explanations are possible for this desire to maintain two conflicting beliefs (i.e., severe environmental destruction occurs but society can continue its basic practices indefinitely): 1) the idea that a technological solution can be found for every problem; 2) an addiction to present behavioral norms, which is so strong that the consequences of continuing such behavior are irrelevant; and 3) the concept that, while human society can alter natural systems to suit its own needs, natural systems are incapable of altering human society. This last issue is the focus of this discussion: if human society eliminates all species on the planet that are incapable of tolerating human society's present practices, the only species remaining will be those that human so...Continue Reading

References

Mar 1, 1948·Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·O N RANSFORD

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Citations

Feb 12, 1998·Environmental Health Perspectives·J Cairns

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