Comprehending
By Sophie1994
@Sophie1994 (31)
China
November 11, 2013 4:54am CST
Here is a quotation from Silent Spring by Rachel Carson.
Only in the present century has one species - man - acquired significant power to alter the nature of his world. During the past quarter century this power has not only become increasingly great but it has changed in character.
What does 'in character' mean here? In my opinion, the power has become increasingly great because man can even create substances that don't exist in nature. But how has the power changed in character? And has this power changed for better or worse?
2 responses
@owlwings (43910)
• Cambridge, England
12 Nov 13
It is to be hoped that Rachel Carson would go on to explain just how the character of the power has changed during the past quarter century. In fact, she does in the following sentences (which are just the beginning of her argument):
"The most alarming of all man's assaults upon the environment is the contamination of air, earth, rivers, and sea with dangerous and even lethal materials. This pollution is for the most part irrecoverable."
Here she is suggesting, I think, that, while the power to alter the nature of the world was, in the past, largely reversible (for example, forests may regrow), the character has changed because of the dangerous and lethal nature of the contaminants.
1 person likes this
@sunilmishra7756 (4263)
• Moradabad, India
11 Nov 13
In my opinion everything of nature is being deteriorated.by men.
Thanks.
@Sophie1994 (31)
• China
11 Nov 13
Well, not everything I think. Back to the point, what do you think of change in character here?
@Sophie1994 (31)
• China
11 Nov 13
Indeed, men has been working harm to nature; but at the same time, there are some trying to correct their mistakes and protect our nature.
@sunilmishra7756 (4263)
• Moradabad, India
11 Nov 13
@Sophie1994
You can hear in the news daily about deterioration of man's character.The rapecases are increasing by leaps and bounds.
Thanks
