Quote by Henry David Thoreau
By avarice and selfishness, and a groveling habit, from which none of us is free, of regarding the soil as property, or the means of acquiring property chiefly, the landscape is deformed, husbandry is degraded with us, and the farmer leads the meanest of lives. He knows Nature but as a robber.
Summary
This quote highlights the destructive impact of avarice, selfishness, and a narrow mindset that considers the land merely as a source of profit. Such an outlook distorts the natural landscape, diminishes the importance of sustainable farming practices, and diminishes the quality of life for farmers. The farmer, through societal influences, views nature as something to exploit rather than understand or appreciate. It brings attention to the negative consequences of prioritizing personal gain above ecological integrity and the interconnectedness between humans and the environment.