The Conquest of Nature - Oleg N. Pisarzhevski

The Conquest of Nature: A History of Scientific Hubris

In his book "The Conquest of Nature: A History of Scientific Hubris," Oleg N. Pisarzhevski argues that the scientific revolution has led to a dangerous hubris in which humans believe that they can control and dominate nature. This hubris has led to a series of environmental crises, including climate change, pollution, and deforestation.

Pisarzhevski begins by tracing the history of scientific hubris back to the ancient Greeks, who believed that humans were the center of the universe and that nature was there for their use. This belief was reinforced by the rise of Christianity, which taught that humans were created in the image of God and given dominion over the earth.

The scientific revolution further exacerbated this hubris by giving humans the tools to actually control and dominate nature. The development of the steam engine, the internal combustion engine, and other technologies allowed humans to reshape the environment on an unprecedented scale.

Pisarzhevski argues that this hubris has led to a series of environmental crises that are now threatening the planet. Climate change, pollution, and deforestation are all the result of human activities that have been driven by the belief that we can control and dominate nature.

Pisarzhevski concludes by calling for a new approach to nature that is based on humility and respect. He argues that we need to recognize that we are part of nature, not separate from it, and that we need to work with nature, not against it.

Why You Should Read This Book

"The Conquest of Nature" is a must-read for anyone who is concerned about the environment. Pisarzhevski's book provides a powerful and persuasive argument that scientific hubris is a major cause of the environmental crises that we are facing today. He also offers a new vision for a more sustainable future, based on humility and respect for nature.

If you are interested in learning more about the history of environmental thought, or if you are simply concerned about the future of our planet, then I highly recommend reading "The Conquest of Nature."

Praise for "The Conquest of Nature"

"A brilliant and provocative book that challenges our most basic assumptions about the relationship between humans and nature." — Bill McKibben, author of "Eaarth: Making a Life on a Tough New Planet"

"A powerful and persuasive indictment of scientific hubris and its devastating consequences for the environment. Pisarzhevski offers a timely and important reminder that we need to change our ways if we want to save our planet." — James Lovelock, author of "The Revenge of Gaia"

"A must-read for anyone who cares about the future of our planet. Pisarzhevski's book is a wake-up call that we cannot afford to ignore." — David Suzuki, environmental activist and broadcaster