Comments Related To: Trees making news, but not in the usual way

Deforestation is terrible. We need to preserve the trees. Not only do they provide oxygen, they absorb carbon dioxide. If there were no trees, the effects of global warming would be worst than they already are.

It seems that every natural wonder eventually becomes a commodity to be measured in economic terms. This is not necessarily a bad thing insofar as it establishes a tangible value for things essential to life as we know it. We are much more reluctant to let that which we value slip away without a fight, and, barring diversionary subterfuges or grand deceptions, we are much less likely to let the things we would fight for get into a position where they *can* slip away.

The potentially distressing part of the equation comes when the commodification of natural wonders - or natural resources, if you prefer - is seen as the most important aspect of a given tree, river or gust of wind. When that innate sense of awe, reverence and majesty such wonders have inspired in humankind for millions of years (make that "thousands" for you Creationists; the point is the same) is subtly or not-so-subtly replaced by a sense of ownership or mastery to serve the profit motive, profound changes in the human psyche are bound to take place.

It is entirely possible, and desirable, to have technological progress and responsible stewardship simultaneously, but a reluctance to explore viable alternatives to the timber industry's hold on the paper market ultimately serves only the interests of corporate entities and their shareholders, which are intent on maintaining maximum profits until the last possible minute. Again, this isn't necessarily a bad thing, especially when the practices of the corporate structure in question are in synch with the greater good of the community, but as Erin Brokovich and way too many other lawyers have proven time and again in court, that isn't always the case. And that's putting it mildly.

Homo sapiens (the wise human) will either grow and expand every aspect of that wisdom into some new creature resembling homo noeticus, (spirit-soul human) or else human progress in technology -- so much of it now geared toward maximum profits and militaristic ends at the expense of the peace, prosperity and harmony we are all ostensibly striving for -- will continue to dangerously outpace human progress in matters of the heart and spirit.

Should it get to that point, Einstein's comment about not knowing what weapons would be used in World War IV, but that sticks and stones would be used in World War IV, may well end up being more than just a cryptic warning from a very wise man.

A correction to my comment above, last paragraph. It should read:

Should it get to that point, Einstein's comment about not knowing what weapons would be used in World War III, but that sticks and stones would be used in World War IV, may well end up being more than just a cryptic warning from a very wise man.

Dare to enrich! you rock. thank you for your beautiful words!