We are now heading down a centuries-long path toward increasing the productivity of our natural capital - the resource systems upon which we depend to live - instead of our human capital.
Paul HawkenRead
Healing the wounds of the earth and its people does not require saintliness or a political party, only gumption and persistence. It is not a liberal or conservative activity; it is a sacred act.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes that healing the planet and its inhabitants is achievable through determination and effort, rather than political affiliation or moral superiority.
Paul Hawken's quote underscores the idea that addressing the issues facing our world—be it environmental or social—does not necessitate a saintly disposition or alignment with any specific political ideology. Instead, what is truly required is a combination of courage and unwavering determination. By framing this process as a 'sacred act,' the quote highlights the significance of our collective responsibility to care for both the Earth and its people, suggesting that this is a universal endeavor rooted in compassion and commitment rather than partisanship.
Themes
HealingEarthGumptionPersistenceSacredResponsibility
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared during an environmental conference to inspire action among participants.
More from Paul Hawken
All quotes →Inspiration is not garnered from the litanies of what may befall us; it resides in humanity's willingness to restore, redress, reform, rebuild, recover, reimagine, and reconsider.
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We can no longer prosper by increasing human productivity. The more we try to do, the more poverty we will create.
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At present we are stealing the future, selling it in the present, and calling it gross domestic product.
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How much harm does a company have to do before we question its right to exist?
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We have the capacity to create a remarkably different economy: one that can restore ecosystems and protect the environment while bringing forth innovation, prosperity, meaningful work, and true security.
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