Charles Mann’s article, “State of the Species,” explicitly illustrates the path that we are taking, as the Earth continues to become in worse shape. His comparison of humans to invasive species is clear: “Humans, too, specialize in disturbed habits – but we do the disturbing.” Mann’s reference to the way that humans invade multiple habitats, while destroying anything that comes in its way, clearly emphasizes the horrific nature that we have come to possess. His description that humans are the exception to natural selection is justified by the unfortunate reactions the Earth has had due to human actions. We are involved in a vicious cycle of ruining what is left in front of us and then eventually, sooner rather than later, being attacked and destroyed because of our actions.
It is upsetting that the “beginning of the end…is already upon us” and that small changes that are being executed are not nearly close to enough (Clapp & Dauvergne). As McKibben describes, “we remain in denial about the peril that human civilization is in.” While there are small changes being made on an individual and political level, such as recycling or increasing the requirement of cars’ fuel efficiency, evidence has shown that this is not enough. We do not have enough time to only focus on small changes, while the main issue is still in effect: the continual burning of fossil fuels. As McKibben points out, a change that would make a significant impact on our future is if we stop burning fossil fuels, in order for carbon emissions to decreases.
Although there is scientific evidence of the damage we are doing to the planet, there is not enough action being done in a quick enough time to counteract the effects that we are creating.
Climate Crew 