"Green politics at its worst amounts to a sort of Zen fascism; less extreme, it denounces growth and seeks to stop the world so that we can all get off"

In this thought-provoking quote, Chris Patten reviews certain aspects of environmentalism, defining its more extreme kinds as "Zen fascism". This expression uses the contrasting ideas of zen, which suggests peace and mindfulness, and fascism, which is an authoritarian and dictatorial system, to draw attention to the paradoxical nature of some radical environmental techniques. The term "Zen fascism" implies that while these motions might outwardly seem tranquil or spiritual, they may utilize stiff or overbearing methods to impose their perfects.

By identifying these extreme forms as such, Patten indicates that in the pursuit of ecological objectives, some factions may end up being so dogmatic and inflexible that they mirror the authoritarian systems they might otherwise oppose. This could mean imposing extreme measures without factor to consider for private liberties or the varied requirements of society, potentially leading to socio-political injustice under the guise of environmentalism.

The 2nd part of the quote, "less extreme, it knocks development and seeks to stop the world so that we can all get off", criticizes the anti-growth belief present in some ecological ideologies. Patten highlights a common review of certain ecologist viewpoints that view economic and industrial growth as naturally harmful to the planet. By expressing a desire to "stop the world", Patten suggests that these point of views might be impractical or not practical, promoting for halting development and advancement in an idealistic however potentially harmful mission to preserve the environment.

This part of the quote mentions a perceived naivety or utopianism in some environmental idea, suggesting that by turning down growth outright, these motions fail to acknowledge the significance of well balanced development that might enable both ecological sustainability and human development. Patten seems to promote for a more pragmatic method, navigating between maintaining the environment and supporting financial development, therefore promoting a harmonious coexistence.