IWU News Advisory

Event: Film showing of Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring and a roundtable discussion on the subject with Susie Balser, assistant professor of biology, Laurine Brown, associate professor of environmental studies, Given Harper, associate professor of biology and Abigail Jahiel, assistant professor of environmental and international studies.

Date: Nov. 6, 2002 (Wednesday)

Time: 7 p.m.

Location: Anderson Auditorium, Center for Natural Science Learning and Research, 201 E. Beecher St., Bloomington

Admission: Free and open to the public

Background: Rachel Carson, biologist, ecologist and writer, alerted the public and aroused action against the hazards of pesticides in her book, Silent Spring, published in 1962.

After 17 years working for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Carson realized the environmental problems of pesticide use. She persevered in her efforts despite hostility from chemical companies and the public’s approval of pesticides at the time. Silent Spring caused a significant concern about the environment as well as a great controversy because before its publication, most believed science was a force for good.

In the book, Carson explained what the poisons are and how mankind has failed to study their potential harm. She suggested more research on the consequences of pesticides on all life forms and recommended alternate methods of pest control.

As a result of Silent Spring, chemical companies began aggressive campaigns to emphasize the benefits of pesticides while President Kennedy ordered a study on their environmental effects. Since its publication, over 40 legislative bills have been introduced to regulate pesticide use.

Contact: For more information, contact Abigail Jahiel, director of IWU’s Environmental Studies Department, at 309/556-3923.