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If we're ever going to get the world back on a natural footing, back in tune with natural rhythyms, if we're going to nurture the Earth and protect it and have fun with it and learn from it - which is what mothers do with their children - then we've got to put technology (an aggressive masculine system) in its proper place, which is that of a tool to be used sparingly, joyfully, gently and only in the fullest cooperation with nature. Nature must govern technology, not the other way around.

Tom Robbins#7

NatureEthicsEnvironmentBalanceCooperationSustainabilityTechnology

About this quote

What does it mean?
To restore balance with nature, technology must be subordinate to natural rhythms and used only as a gentle tool under nature's guidance.
In plain terms
Technology should serve nature, not control it, and be used sparingly and joyfully.
What can you take from it?
Use technology gently and only when it cooperates with nature.

Where it applies

  • environmental policy
  • tech design
  • personal ethics

Putting it to work

  • limit screen time
  • choose sustainable tools
  • respect natural cycles

Questions to consider

  • How do you currently prioritize nature over convenience?
  • What tools do you use that feel aggressive?

Another view

Some technological advances may require dominance over nature to solve critical problems.

More from Tom Robbins

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  3. Embrace failure! Seek it out. Learn to love it. That may be the only way any of us will ever be free.

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