Save the Planet
The other day, I was sitting in the waiting room of an oil change facility. They had a television playing an episode of the BBC series “Planet Earth.” One of the people they interviewed (from the World Wildlife Fund I believe) was saying that “our planet” is at risk.

This is plainly foolish. Even if global thermonuclear war breaks out, followed by a massive asteroid impact, the planet (and life generally) will continue. Humanity may not survive, and many other species may perish, but life will continue.

Unfortunately, this is quite common of advocates for environmental causes. “The earth” or “the planet” is at risk – what can be more urgent? Send in your money now.

The problem is that it fuels a growing skepticism about ecological science. There are valid rational and scientific reasons for society (both locally and globally) to address ecological issues. The rationale is simple self-interest on the part of humanity. Pouring industrial waste chemicals into the local water supply, for example, should be banned not because it makes the water less pretty but because it harms the health of the populace.

To be fair, the episode pursues the theme that “sustainable development” must help people. Too bad much of the environmental message is being advanced by shameless (or ignorant) hacks trying to raise money or manipulate people for political advantage.
- posted by Thomas @ 9:32 AM 0 comments