Quote by Stephanie Mills, Epicurean Simpl

A source of bad conscience, however, is the knowledge that my way of life, austere though it may appear to the richer folk, is still ruinously exploitive of nature -- not in my backyard, where I practice harmlessness toward even the wasps, but in the atmosphere, where my fossil fuel combustion's carbon dioxide is helping change the climate; in all those mountainous places where the metals and minerals that structure and drive my American life are torn from the earth; and in the flesh of fish and birds, mammals, and reptiles, where the chemicals that made the paper and plastic I use bioaccumulate, deforming reproduction. That guilty knowledge is another argument for material simplicity. The less I consume, the less harm I do to that which I love. In a consumer society, harmless living may be simple, but it is not easy. I make no claim to exemplary harmlessness or simplicity.

Summary

This quote highlights the speaker's awareness of the negative impact their lifestyle has on the environment. They acknowledge that even though their way of life may seem minimalistic compared to wealthier individuals, it still contributes to exploitation and harm towards nature. The guilt they feel stems from the realization that their actions, such as fossil fuel consumption and the use of materials derived from destructive practices, directly contribute to climate change and the degradation of ecosystems. The quote suggests that living a simple and non-consumptive lifestyle is essential for minimizing harm and taking responsibility for the well-being of the planet. The speaker does not claim to be perfect but recognizes the importance of striving towards harmlessness and simplicity.