The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History (2014)

Kolbert notes that some species have exhibited an ability to adapt to changing environments, but the advent of the human species and its actions has sped up the time frame in which species would need to complete that adaptation. How significant is this challenge facing the Anthropocene era, and what implications may it have for the future of humanity?

Describe and discuss the impact of ocean acidification on marine life, and on key components of that life, such as coral reefs.

Do human beings have the right to expect other species to evolve and adapt in response to the impact of human activities on the planet?

Explain why amphibians are considered “the planet’s greatest survivors.” How have they earned that reputation, and why might they be endangered in the current Anthropocene era?

Consider the concept of the “paradigm shift” within the historical examples that Kolbert provides in the text. How have “paradigm shifts” helped change the way scientists view the modern world?

Using specific examples from the text, explain how catastrophism deviates from Darwin’s concept of natural selection.

What records have been examined to determine the existence and time frames of the Big Five extinction events? How might these records indicate the current or future presence of the Sixth Extinction?

How did the current era come to be named Anthropocene? Is it an appropriate name for this period? Explain.