The human planet : how we created the Anthropocene / Simon L. Lewis and Mark A. Maslin.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Lewis, Simon L., author.

Maslin, Mark, author.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Nature--Effect of human beings on.

Nature.

Geology, Stratigraphic--Anthropocene.

Geology, Stratigraphic.

Human ecology.

Global environmental change.

Physical Description:

1 online resource (480 p.) : 30 b-w illus.

Place of Publication:

New Haven, Connecticut ; London, England : Yale University Press, [2018]

Language Note:

In English.

Summary:

A remarkable exploration of the science, history, and politics of the Anthropocene, one of the most important scientific ideas of our time, from two world-renowned expertsMeteorites, mega-volcanoes, and plate tectonics-the old forces of nature-have transformed Earth for millions of years. They are now joined by a new geological force-humans. Our actions have driven Earth into a new geological epoch, the Anthropocene. For the first time in our home planet's 4.5-billion-year history a single species is increasingly dictating Earth's future.To some the Anthropocene symbolizes a future of superlative control of our environment. To others it is the height of hubris, the illusion of our mastery over nature. Whatever your view, just below the surface of this odd-sounding scientific word, the Anthropocene, is a heady mix of science, philosophy, and politics linked to our deepest fears and utopian visions.Tracing our environmental impacts through time, scientists Simon Lewis and Mark Maslin reveal a new view of human history and a new outlook for the future of humanity in the unstable world we have created.

Contents:

Frontmatter

Contents

List of Figures

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

INTRODUCTION. The Meaning of the Anthropocene

CHAPTER 1. The Hidden History of the Anthropocene

CHAPTER 2. How to Divide Geological Time

CHAPTER 3. Down from the Trees

CHAPTER 4. Farming, the First Energy Revolution

CHAPTER 5. Globalization 1.0, the Modern World

CHAPTER 6. Fossil Fuels, the Second Energy Revolution

CHAPTER 7. Globalization 2.0, the Great Acceleration

CHAPTER 8. Living in Epoch- Making Times

CHAPTER 9. Defining the Anthropocene

CHAPTER 10. How We Became a Force of Nature

CHAPTER 11. Can Homo dominatus Become Wise?

Notes

Index

Notes:

Description based on print version record.

"Original edition first published by Penguin Books Ltd, London"--Title page verso.

Includes bibliographical references (pages [417]-448) and index.

ISBN:

0-300-24303-0

OCLC:

1125184971