E. O. Wilson

“The one process now going on that will take millions of years to correct is the loss of genetic and species diversity by the destruction of natural habitats. This is the folly our descendants are least likely to forgive us.”

“The real problem of humanity is the following: we have paleolithic emotions; medieval institutions; and god-like technology.”

“Nature holds the key to our aesthetic, intellectual, cognitive and even spiritual satisfaction.”

“Science and religion are the two most powerful forces in the world. Having them at odds... is not productive.”

“True character is shown in the choices a man makes under pressure.”

“Original discovery is the mark of a scientist.”

“We are drowning in information, while starving for wisdom.”

“Destroying rainforest for economic gain is like burning a Renaissance painting to cook a meal.”

“You are capable of more than you know. Choose a goal that seems right for you and strive to be the best, however hard the path. Aim high. Behave honorably. Prepare to be alone at times, and to endure failure. Persist! The world needs all you can give.”

“If all mankind were to disappear, the world would regenerate back to the rich state of equilibrium that existed ten thousand years ago. If insects were to vanish, the environment would collapse into chaos.”

“The love of complexity without reductionism makes art; the love of complexity with reductionism makes science.”

“The essence of humanity’s spiritual dilemma is that we evolved genetically to accept one truth and discovered another.”

“Biophilia, if it exists, and I believe it exists, is the innately emotional affiliation of human beings to other living organisms.”

“Perhaps the time has come to cease calling it the 'environmentalist' view... and to start calling it the real-world view.”

“The world is not a problem to be solved; it is a living being to which we belong.”

“The education of women is the best way to save the environment.”