In "State of Fear," author Michael Crichton presents a critical perspective on the consequences of human intervention, particularly in the context of environmental issues. Kenner articulates a cycle where misguided actions aimed at solving problems lead to further complications and damage. This reflects a broader theme of the book, which questions the efficacy of well-intentioned but ultimately flawed efforts to manage natural systems.

Crichton suggests that rather than achieving true progress, these repeated interventions often result in a legacy of ignorance and incompetence. The narrative emphasizes the importance of understanding the complex interactions within ecosystems and cautions against oversimplified solutions that may cause more harm than good.