- Discuss the concepts of "Nature's nation" and "ecological imperialism" as stated in the essay and how they may complement or otherwise contradict each other.
- Comment on how you understand the following quote and whether you agree or disagre: "Environmentalism emerged from a mood that not only assailed the prevailing liberal democratic political system and its undeprinning capitalist ethos but also questioned the philosophical assumptions of Western industrial civilization." (anthology, p. 44, text page 24)
Painting: Albert Berdstatd, "The Last of the Buffalo", 1888
The quote says that environmentalism not only protects nature but also criticizes capitalism and industrial society. I partly agree as some movements reject the system because it prioritizes money over the planet, but others look for solutions within it, such as clean energy and environmental laws.
ReplyDeleteIn my opinion, the quote challenges the way nature and natural resources have historically been treated—primarily as tools for human use and consumption. It brings into question not only our methods of exploitation(or a possible "capitalist" critic) but also the deeper relationship between people and the environment. It invites a broader debate: is nature merely a resource to be used, or is it something more integral, even sacred—something deeply intertwined with human existence and identity?
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