The English word, “plastic,” has its roots in the Greek word for “to mold” because plastic is formed, not carved like wood or beaten into shape like iron. But the German word for plastic, der Kunststoff, expresses a different concept. Der Kunststoff comes from der Stoff, meaning “material,” and die Kunst, “art” or “artistry.” Unlike natural materials, plastic itself is an expression of human creativity and ingenuity.
Clare B. Dunkle
