Quinn – Ishmael Excerpt

Question 1

Core Idea

Answer 1

This is a conversation between a man and a gorilla (Ishmael) that questions how humans treat the environment and challenges the stories we tell about our culture.

Question 2

Takers vs. Leavers

Answer 2

Takers: Modern industrial societies that use the environment in unsustainable ways.
Leavers: Indigenous or traditional societies that live in balance with nature.

Question 3

Mother Culture

Answer 3

The common way of thinking that leads to harming the environment (like the idea that “Humans are meant to rule the Earth”).

Question 4

Critique of Settlements

Answer 4

Suggests that farming and living in one place started humanity’s disconnection from nature.

Question 5

Study Tip

Answer 5

Be able to explain the metaphor of the Takers and Leavers and its relevance today (e.g., urban sprawl, deforestation).