We have lived by the assumption that what was good for us would be good for the world. We have been wrong. We must change our lives, so that it will be possible to live by the contrary assumption that what is good for the world will be good for us. . . We must recover the sense of the majesty of the creation and the ability to be worshipful in its presence. For it is only on the condition of humility and reverence before the world that our species will be able to remain in it.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- We must shift from assuming personal benefit drives world good to believing that doing good for the world benefits us, fostering humility and reverence for creation.
- In plain terms
- Live as if caring for the world first will also benefit you.
- What can you take from it?
- Adopt humility and reverence toward nature for long‑term survival.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What does humility look like in daily life?
- How can reverence for nature be expressed practically?
Another view
Self‑interest can still motivate positive environmental action.
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