Dale Easley's Favorite Quotations
| The Ecological Crisis: A Common Responsibility |
| John Paul II, Pope |
| Certain elements of today's ecological crisis reveal its moral
character. First among these is the indiscriminate application of
advances in science and technology. Many recent discoveries have brought
undeniable benefits to humanity. Indeed, they demonstrate the nobility of
the human vocation to participate responsibly in God's creative action in
the world. Unfortunately, it is now clear that the application of these
discoveries in the fields of industry and agriculture have produced
harmful long-term effects: This has led to the painful realization that we
cannot interfere in one area of the ecosystem without paying due attention
both to the consequences of such interference in other areas and to the
well-being of future generations.
The gradual depletion of the ozone layer and the related 'greenhouse effect' has now reached crisis proportions as a consequence of industrial growth, massive urban concentrations and vastly increased energy needs. Industrial waste, the burning of fossil fuels, unrestricted deforestation, the use of certain types of herbicides; coolants and propellants: aIl of these are known to harm the atmosphere and environment. The resulting meteorological and atmospheric changes range from damage to health to the possible future submersion of low-lying iands. While in some cases the damage already done may well be irreversible, in many other cases it can still be halted; It is necessary, however, that the entire human community--- individuals, States and international bodies--- take seriously the responsibility that is theirs. The most profound and serious indication of the moral implications underlying the ecological problem is lack of respect for life evident in many of the patterns of environmental pollution. Often, the interests of production prevail over concern for the dignity of workers, while economic interests take priority over the good of individuals and even even entire peoples: In these cases, pollution or environmental destruction is the result of an unnatural and reductionist vision which at times leads to a genuine contempt for man. On another level, delicate ecological balances are upset by the uncontrolled destruction of animal and plant life or by a reckless exploitation of natural resources. It should be pointed out that all of this, even if carried out in the nane of progress and well-being, is ultimately to mankind's disadvantage. Finally, we can only look with deep concern at the enormous possibilities of biological research. We are not yet in a position to assess the biological disturbance that could result from indiscriminate genetic manipulation and from the unscrupulous development of new forms of plant and animal Iife, to say nothing of unacceptable experimentation regarding the origins of human life itself. It is evident to all that in any area as delicate as this, indifference to fundamental ethical norms, or their rejection, would lead mankind to the very threshold of self destruction. Respect for life, and above a1l for the dignity of the human person, is the ultimate guiding norm for any sound economic, industrial or scientific progress. The complexity of the ecological question is evident to all. There are; however, certain underlying principles, which, while respecting the legitimate autonomy and specific competence of those involved, can direct research towards adequate and lasting solutions. These principles are essential to the building of a peaceful society; no peaceful society can afford to neglect either respect for life of the fact that there is an integrity to creation. [pp.~6-8] Modern society will find no solution to the ecological problem unless it takes a serious look at its life style. [p.~11] |