Carson Silent Spring

Rachel Carson, author of 'Silent Spring'. Photo by http://advocacy.britannica.com/blog/advocacy/2006/12/rachel-carson-environmental-advocate/

 "I do contend that we put poisonous and biologically potent chemicals indiscriminately into the hands of persons largely or wholly ignorant to their potentials for harm" (Carson, 159).

This statement is very important. Not only are these chemicals and insecticides extremely dangerous they are being used by people that may not truly understand the dangers and potential for harm. Even still, there is many chemicals being used that we do not know the full potential impact they will have. The truly sad thing is the people who do not their potentials for harm but still continue to advocate for them in order to make money. As for many things, money has become the true motivators. People do not want to see bugs, even those harmless, so they pay for insecticide to be sprayed on them. The ironic thing is that bugs on fresh produce is a good sign. It means that it is a healthy plant. Simply relocate the bug and wash off the veggie and it is good to go. The tastiest vegetables and fruits come from your own garden.

Mallard eggs effected by DDT. Photo by http://www.scienceclarified.com/Co-Di/DDT-dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane.html

"There is still very little awareness of the nature of the threat" (Carson, 160).

I have to disagree with this statement. This may have been in true when Carson wrote this book in 1962 but today I think many know the dangers of what they are doing to the environment. At least the people creating these things know enough as to the negative effects on the environment and our health. Again, money speaks and people become selfish. We know car exhaust from gasoline is harmful to the environment and yet it is still being pushed and is the main source of car fuel. There is research being done to create more efficient fuel sources but I cannot see them becoming the norm until gasoline will no longer make them companies enough money. Today there is a lot of awareness of the threat it is just ignored.

Insecticides. Photo from http://homeduuka.com/image/insecticide.jpg

"It is not my contention that chemical insecticides must never be used" (Carson, 150). 

I do not understand this quote. For all of Carson's thoughts on the issues and the harmful effects of insecticides I would imagine her to be completely against insecticides. I understand there is sometimes when insecticides would be necessary. For instance, in your home when they are detrimental to your health. However, for most insects there are natural insecticides that can be used to remove the pests. Personally, I will use chemical products when as infestation occurs or for parasites like fleas, internal worms, and ticks. Other than that we should be willing to share our land with those there first. I would think Carson would feel similarly.