The old "red in tooth and claw" view of the natural economy has to be updated. We need a new metaphor for the forest, one that helps us visualize plants both sharing and competing. … Evolution's engine is fired by genetic self-interest, but this manifests itself in cooperative action as well as solo selfishness. The natural economy has as many trade unions as robber barons, as much solidarity as individualistic entrepreneurship.


"December 3rd — Litter," pages 228-229 - The Forest Unseen: A Year's Watch in Nature (2012)

David G. Haskell Quotes

The old red in tooth and claw view of the natural economy has to be updated. We need a new metaphor for the forest, one that helps us visualize...

The old red in tooth and claw view of the natural economy has to be updated. We need a new metaphor for the forest, one that helps us visualize...

The old red in tooth and claw view of the natural economy has to be updated. We need a new metaphor for the forest, one that helps us visualize...

The old red in tooth and claw view of the natural economy has to be updated. We need a new metaphor for the forest, one that helps us visualize...