on 10/25/00 14:16, Steven Bissell at [log in to unmask] wrote:
> The problem is "fit in" to what? If ecosystems are truly and "merely"
> artificial constructs, how to we form any rational basis for "awe" and
> "respect?"
Fit into the cycles. Awe at the complexity and perfection of the cycles,
again: cycles of nutrients, water, energy, etc. So for example, an ethic
that stresses the importance of fitting in to those cycles when applied
would advocate such radical notions as: ensuring that human waste returns to
the soil in recognition of nutrient flows, using gray water systems and
cisterns again in recognition of the importance of not sucking our aquifers
dry with abandon, using the sun for power in recognition that the flow of
the sun's energy is our only income--and as good economists we know that we
should spend only our income, not our (natural) capital.
Adam
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