From Calm Leadership, Lasting Change
NANCY F. KOEHN
The New York Times
October 27, 2012
Full article: http://ogoapes.weebly.com/uploads/3/2/3/9/3239894/rachel_carsons_lessons_50_years_after_silent_spring_-_nytimes.com.pdf
Topic: Rachel Carson
Summary:
Rachel Carson was a important figure in the environmental movement. In her book, Silent Spring, she advocated the threats of pesticides. Despite heavy criticism from companies, she still advocated against pesticide use. After many tenures with cancer, she was determined to identify any links between pesticides and cancers. She argued that a plethora of synthetic pesticides such as DDT, were being applied without regard to animal health and the environment. In 1962, JFK, after reading Carson's book, appointed a study/research committee on pesticide use. Furthermore, more government agencies called for increased regulation of pesticides. Later in the 1960s, other events such as oil spills, chemical fires, and agent orange in Vietnam, exemplified her warnings of the detrimental effects chemicals could have. Thus, Earth Day was established on April 22nd, 1970. Soon after, government agencies began banning DDT, and passing environmental acts such as the Endangered Species Act and the Clean Water Act, giving rise to the modern environmental movement.
Reflection:
I was unaware of how Rachel Carson fought against pesticide use while battling cancer simultaneously. She must have cared a lot for the quality of the environment and human health. I think it's impressive for an ordinary woman to put in immense effort and time to advocate the dangers of pouring chemicals into the environment despite the massive negative criticism she received. I am indeed grateful for people like her that overcome personal issues to help others. After reading this article, I learned that anyone can ultimately change the world even in the midst of oppression.
NANCY F. KOEHN
The New York Times
October 27, 2012
Full article: http://ogoapes.weebly.com/uploads/3/2/3/9/3239894/rachel_carsons_lessons_50_years_after_silent_spring_-_nytimes.com.pdf
Topic: Rachel Carson
Summary:
Rachel Carson was a important figure in the environmental movement. In her book, Silent Spring, she advocated the threats of pesticides. Despite heavy criticism from companies, she still advocated against pesticide use. After many tenures with cancer, she was determined to identify any links between pesticides and cancers. She argued that a plethora of synthetic pesticides such as DDT, were being applied without regard to animal health and the environment. In 1962, JFK, after reading Carson's book, appointed a study/research committee on pesticide use. Furthermore, more government agencies called for increased regulation of pesticides. Later in the 1960s, other events such as oil spills, chemical fires, and agent orange in Vietnam, exemplified her warnings of the detrimental effects chemicals could have. Thus, Earth Day was established on April 22nd, 1970. Soon after, government agencies began banning DDT, and passing environmental acts such as the Endangered Species Act and the Clean Water Act, giving rise to the modern environmental movement.
Reflection:
I was unaware of how Rachel Carson fought against pesticide use while battling cancer simultaneously. She must have cared a lot for the quality of the environment and human health. I think it's impressive for an ordinary woman to put in immense effort and time to advocate the dangers of pouring chemicals into the environment despite the massive negative criticism she received. I am indeed grateful for people like her that overcome personal issues to help others. After reading this article, I learned that anyone can ultimately change the world even in the midst of oppression.