| The Modification of Human Society by Natural Systems: Discontinuities Caused by the Exploitation of Endemic Species and the Introduction of Exotics John Cairns, Jr. and Joseph R. Bidwell Department of Biology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061 USA Abstract
Drastic reductions in Earth's biodiversity, old growth forests, top soil, clean water and air, and truly wild areas are occurring during a period when discussions of sustainable growth and sustainable production are becoming common. Using such terms as sustainable growth and sustainable production rather than the more accurate sustainable use of the planet leaves the impression that, with a little more skill, society can continue its present practices indefinitely. A number of explanations are possible for this desire to maintain two conflicting beliefs (i.e., severe environmental destruction occurs but society can continue its basic practices indefinitely) : 1) the idea that a technological solution can be found for every problem ; 2) an addiction to present behavioral norms, which is so strong that the consequences of continuing such behavior are irrelevant ; and 3) the concept that, while human society can alter natural systems to suit its own needs, natural systems are incapable of altering human society. This last issue is the focus of this discussion: if human society eliminates all species on the planet that are incapable of tolerating human society's present practices, the only species remaining will be those that human society is unable to control successfully or eliminate ; these species are called pests. Another hypothesis could be stated: a world of pests that human society cannot control effectively will inevitably reshape human society through disease and famine, technological breakdown, and interference with domesticated and wild species upon which the integrity of human societal structure depends. Key words: coevolution, discontinuities, endemic species, exotic species, human society modification, sustainability. Environ Health Perspect 104:1142-1145 (1996)
Address correspondence to J. Cairns, Jr., Department of Biology, 1020 Derring Hall, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061 USA. We appreciate comments on a draft of this manuscript from our colleague B. R. Niederlehner and we thank Darla Donald for editing the manuscript for publication. Received 13 May 1996 ; accepted 1 August 1996.
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