The environmental crisis

Today concern about the environment is deep and widespread. It shows no sign of diminishing and, on the contrary, gives evidence of approaching hysteria on some occasions. The recent flap about mercury in tuna illustrates how fast the public jumps at any worrisome news about the environment, even when the concern is not justified. If we are to have a livable environment we must work constructively, but excessive fear and panic will impede progress, particularly when they are directed against the wrong or nonexistent problems.