In some cases in which false statements might, if acted upon, result in danger or loss to those who believed them, the U.S. government prevents the statements from being made in the first place. Caves were the homes and burial places of primitive peoples, and from them scientists are able to learn much about these peoples' lives, habits, and beliefs. Caves contain evidence of primitive peoples' mode of life, their ideas, their artistic abilities, and their religions. Legends and superstitions have focused on caves, and they have been thought to be passages to the underworld.
Monetary gain is an inadequate criterion for the success of a business.
The face of the country is so level that rainwater stands for months upon it. The water does not flow off but very gradually soaks into the soil and then oozes out in bogs. There are two rainy seasons in the year, and therefore two periods of flooding. There is no muddy sediment since the country is covered by such a mass of vegetation that the water flows over it without disturbing the soil beneath. Thoreau often expressed views that were disapproved by most people, even considered disloyal by many.