July 27, 2009
I’m not exactly sure how to interpret the Silent Spring video. Part of the sound was not working throughout this short footage. President Kennedy made reference to Carson’s book but only acknowledged that they were “looking into the matter.” The poor guy that asked the question about DDT at the press conference looked like he was extremely uncomfortable in bringing up the subject. During the 1950s and early sixties, it was not popular to question or criticize government agencies.
Although government regulations on the environment have increased over the years, we continue to face increasing challenges in reference to pollution of our air and waterways. Somewhere along the way, our government has failed us.
Rachel Carson’s work is nothing short of miraculous. Like so many other women during that timeframe, Carson struggled with family responsibilities in trying to do it all. After her book was published she was publicly criticized for being an “alarmist” and a “hysterical woman.” Carson’s words continue to ring the same message and truth in the 21st century.
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