Dr. Mark Madison
|
Email Interview
March 16th 2015
|
1. During the 1950's many conservationists and environmental groups had discovered the harmful effects of pesticides on wildlife (For example the Audubon society had identified and raised alarm about the declining population of bald eagles). What was different about Rachel Carson that made her stand out and be an impetus for change?
Carson was a best-selling author and a great communicator. So her book was read by many more folks and did a good job of synthesizing the complex science behind the adverse effects of DDT.
2. Aside from the banning of DDT what were some of the most important legacies left behind by Rachel Carson and how much can environmental movement today be attributed back to her?
Carson drew a large number of women into science with her example. She also raised awareness about overall toxins in the atmosphere leading the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1970. Her concern for all species helped create the Endangered Species Act of 1973.
3. What were some of the negative aspects about Rachel Carson's legacy?
None except the crooks who attack her.
4. How did Rachel Carson's career at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service impact her later writings such as Silent Spring?
The Fish and Wildlife Service scientists at Patuxent Research Refuge carried out many of the pioneering early studies on DDT going back to the 1940s. Carson read and edited these studies and was brought up to date on the dangers to wildlife which was the primary concern of the FWS.
5. Which of Rachel Carson's lessons is most relevant today?
One person speaking truth to power really can make a difference.
Carson was a best-selling author and a great communicator. So her book was read by many more folks and did a good job of synthesizing the complex science behind the adverse effects of DDT.
2. Aside from the banning of DDT what were some of the most important legacies left behind by Rachel Carson and how much can environmental movement today be attributed back to her?
Carson drew a large number of women into science with her example. She also raised awareness about overall toxins in the atmosphere leading the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1970. Her concern for all species helped create the Endangered Species Act of 1973.
3. What were some of the negative aspects about Rachel Carson's legacy?
None except the crooks who attack her.
4. How did Rachel Carson's career at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service impact her later writings such as Silent Spring?
The Fish and Wildlife Service scientists at Patuxent Research Refuge carried out many of the pioneering early studies on DDT going back to the 1940s. Carson read and edited these studies and was brought up to date on the dangers to wildlife which was the primary concern of the FWS.
5. Which of Rachel Carson's lessons is most relevant today?
One person speaking truth to power really can make a difference.