The more I learned about the use of pesticides, the more appalled I became. I realized that here was the material for a book. What I discovered was that everything which meant most to me as a naturalist was being threatened, and that nothing I could do would be more important.

Only within the moment of time represented by the present century has one species -- man -- acquired significant power to alter the nature of the world.

Science is part of the reality of living; it is the what, the how, and the why of everything in our experience.

The 'control of nature' is a phrase conceived in arrogance, born of the Neanderthal age of biology and philosophy, when it was supposed that nature exists for the convenience of man.

It is ironic to think that man might determine his own future by something so seemingly trivial as the choice of an insect spray.

Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts.

The more I learned about the use of pesticides, the more appalled I became. I realized that here was the material for a book. What I discovered was that everything which meant most to me as a naturalist was being threatened, and that nothing I could do would be more important.