Do We Even Need Metal?

More serious issues with mining are set forth today - that is, not only concerns about mining as a career choice for yourself, but as a component of our lifestyle in general. For me, today, it's hard to imagine life with no metal in it at all. But apparently, in Agricola's time some people advocated simply not using any metal - otherwise he wouldn't have felt the need to refute them. It was felt that we are creatures of the earth's surface, made to cultivate the land, but that we are not made for digging under the earth's surface. If you have food, clothing, shelter and exercise, says this school of thought, you don't need metal at all and you'll be better off without it.

One of the concerns is the impact of mining on the environment. The smelting process required heat, which was provided by burning trees. Already in the 16th century, one could notice that whole forests were being cut down and not renewed, and the impact this had on animals whose habitat was in that forest. Also, pollution of streams and rivers was a problem, along with its impact on fish.

Another reason is the impact that some metals (i.e. gold and silver) seemed to have on people, as an incitement to various forms of violence and dishonesty - war, bribery, thievery and so forth. The cruel punishment of thieves is also a form of violence.

As to mining as a career choice, well, it was seen as highly risky, but it's much less risky if a person goes into it with some knowledge and expertise. There were a lot of bad miners out there hacking away mindlessly at any old rock. If you know what you are looking for, the success rate is much higher. Mining is also less stable than farming, though Agricola points to a few specific mines that have been worked for hundreds of years without being exhausted. Finally, there are dangers of working under the earth's surface. Again, Agricola feels these dangers can be lessened if not entirely eliminated, through care and training.