Meaning: The quote "No matter what we call it, poison is still poison, death is still death, and industrial civilization is still causing the greatest mass extinction in the history of the planet" by Derrick Jensen encapsulates a powerful message about the destructive impact of industrial civilization on the environment and the planet as a whole. Derrick Jensen is an American author, ecophilosopher, and radical environmentalist known for his advocacy of anarcho-primitivism, which critiques the dominant culture's impact on the natural world.

In this quote, Jensen highlights the undeniable reality that the consequences of human actions on the environment cannot be disguised or euphemized. By stating "poison is still poison, death is still death," he emphasizes the fact that no matter how we try to downplay or reframe the destructive elements of industrial civilization, the inherent harm remains unchanged. This is a call to acknowledge the truth and to confront the grave implications of our actions on the planet.

The reference to industrial civilization causing the greatest mass extinction in the history of the planet draws attention to the environmental crisis that has been exacerbated by human activities. Industrial civilization, with its reliance on fossil fuels, deforestation, pollution, and overexploitation of natural resources, has led to a significant loss of biodiversity and the destruction of ecosystems worldwide. The accelerating rate of species extinction is a direct result of human-induced environmental degradation, and Jensen's quote serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address these issues.

Jensen's perspective aligns with a broader critique of industrial civilization's impact on the environment, challenging the prevailing notion of progress and development at the expense of ecological destruction. His work emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living beings and ecosystems, highlighting the non-negotiable link between human actions and their consequences for the natural world.

This quote also challenges the language and narratives used to describe the environmental crisis. By asserting that "no matter what we call it," poison remains poison, Jensen confronts the tendency to use euphemisms or technical jargon to soften the severity of the situation. This serves as a call for clarity and honesty in addressing environmental issues, urging society to recognize and take responsibility for the destructive effects of industrial civilization.

In conclusion, Derrick Jensen's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for environmental awareness and action. It calls for an honest acknowledgment of the damage caused by industrial civilization and a reevaluation of our relationship with the natural world. Jensen's work continues to inspire critical reflection on the impact of human activities on the planet, challenging us to confront the harsh realities of environmental degradation and strive for a more sustainable and harmonious coexistence with the Earth.