George Perkins Marsh

Natural History American 1801 – 1882 102 quotes

Author of Man and Nature who warned of human impact on the environment.

Quotes by George Perkins Marsh

The human race is a geological agent of great power.

Man and Nature; or, Physical Geography as Modified by Human Action 1864

The earth is a vast machine, which, if not properly managed, will soon cease to perform its functions.

Man and Nature; or, Physical Geography as Modified by Human Action 1864

The true measure of civilization is not the extent of man's dominion over nature, but the wisdom with which he exercises that dominion.

Man and Nature; or, Physical Geography as Modified by Human Action 1864

The earth is a living organism, and man is a part of its vital system.

Man and Nature; or, Physical Geography as Modified by Human Action 1864

The physical changes wrought by man are often more profound and lasting than those produced by natural causes.

Man and Nature; or, Physical Geography as Modified by Human Action 1864

The earth is a common property, and its resources should be managed for the common good.

Man and Nature; or, Physical Geography as Modified by Human Action 1864

The duty of man is to restore the disturbed harmonies of nature, and to co-operate with her in the work of improvement.

Man and Nature; or, Physical Geography as Modified by Human Action 1864

The earth is a great school, and man is its most diligent pupil.

Man and Nature; or, Physical Geography as Modified by Human Action 1864

The physical world is a mirror, reflecting the moral character of man.

Man and Nature; or, Physical Geography as Modified by Human Action 1864

The earth is a common heritage, and its resources should be used with prudence and foresight.

Man and Nature; or, Physical Geography as Modified by Human Action 1864

The true end of human endeavor is not to conquer nature, but to live in harmony with her.

Man and Nature; or, Physical Geography as Modified by Human Action 1864

The earth is a great book, and man is its most attentive reader.

Man and Nature; or, Physical Geography as Modified by Human Action 1864

The physical changes wrought by man are often more rapid and extensive than those produced by natural causes.

Man and Nature; or, Physical Geography as Modified by Human Action 1864

The earth is a common property, and its resources should be conserved for future generations.

Man and Nature; or, Physical Geography as Modified by Human Action 1864

The duty of man is to protect and preserve the natural world, not to destroy it.

Man and Nature; or, Physical Geography as Modified by Human Action 1864

The earth is a great teacher, and man is its most eager student.

Man and Nature; or, Physical Geography as Modified by Human Action 1864

The physical world is a reflection of the spiritual world.

Man and Nature; or, Physical Geography as Modified by Human Action 1864

The earth is a common heritage, and its resources should be managed with wisdom and justice.

Man and Nature; or, Physical Geography as Modified by Human Action 1864

The true end of human progress is not to dominate nature, but to live in harmony with her laws.

Man and Nature; or, Physical Geography as Modified by Human Action 1864

The earth is a great laboratory, in which man is constantly experimenting.

Man and Nature; or, Physical Geography as Modified by Human Action 1864