Edward O. Wilson

The real problem of humanity is the following: We have Paleolithic emotions, medieval institutions, and godlike technology.

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 one process ongoing in the 21st century that will most certainly be viewed as the most important by future historians is the loss of biodiversity.

We are drowning in information, while starving for wisdom.

The brain is a product of evolution. It is a biological organ, and it is subject to the same laws of natural selection as any other organ.

To the extent that we depend on the natural world, we are dependent on the continued existence of other species.

The more we know about the world, the more we are able to appreciate its beauty and complexity.

Biodiversity is the greatest treasure we have. Its diminishment is to be prevented at all costs.

The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance.

Humanity is exalted not because we are so far above other living things, but because knowing them well elevates the spirit.

The love of complexity without reductionism makes for a poor science. In my opinion, the love of reductionism without the love of complexity makes for an even poorer science.

We are a product of evolution, and our behavior is shaped by our genes and our environment.

The world is a complex place, and we need to understand it in all its complexity.

The more we learn about the natural world, the more we realize how much we still have to learn.

The greatest challenge facing humanity is to reconcile our technological prowess with our biological heritage.

The human mind is a product of evolution, and it is designed to solve problems.

The natural world is a source of endless wonder and inspiration.

The future of humanity depends on our ability to live in harmony with the natural world.

The greatest discovery will be to understand the origin of life and the origin of consciousness.

The more we understand about the natural world, the more we understand about ourselves.