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Earth in Human Hands
544 pages, 2016
For the first time in Earth's history, our planet is experiencing a confluence of rapidly accelerating changes prompted by one species: humans. Climate change is only the most visible of the modifications we've made--up until this point, inadvertently--to the planet. And our current behavior threatens not only our future but that of countless other creatures.
By comparing Earth's story to those of other planets, astrobiologist David Grinspoon shows what a strange and novel development it is for a species to evolve to build machines and, ultimately, global societies with world-shaping influence.
Without minimizing the next century's challenges, Grinspoon suggests that our present moment is not only one of peril but also great potential, especially when viewed from a 10,000-year perspective. Our species has surmounted the threat of extinction before, thanks to our innate ingenuity and ability to adapt, and there's every reason to believe we can do so again.
In Earth in Human Hands, David Grinspoon makes it clear that humans have a significant role in shaping the future of our planet. He encourages us to see ourselves as planetary engineers who have the power to influence Earth's climate and ecosystems. It's a call to action for us to take responsibility for our actions and their impact on the environment.
Grinspoon introduces us to the concept of the Anthropocene era - a time when human activity is the dominant influence on the environment, climate, and ecosystems. It's a new perspective that makes us realize how our actions are leaving a lasting mark on the planet.
The book explores how technology can both harm and help our planet. While it's true that industrialization and technological advancements have contributed to environmental degradation, Grinspoon also highlights how technology can be used to mitigate these effects and help us better understand our planet.
Grinspoon, being an astrobiologist himself, emphasizes the importance of astrobiology in understanding our place in the universe. By studying life beyond Earth, we can gain insights into how life on our planet might evolve and how we can better protect it.
Despite the challenges we face, Earth in Human Hands leaves us with a sense of optimism. Grinspoon believes that with awareness, responsibility, and action, we can steer our planet towards a sustainable future. It's a hopeful message that inspires us to take action for the sake of our planet.
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Earth in Human Hands is a remarkable synthesis of natural history, planetary science, extinction histories, Earth's climate and the future of technology. It's a compelling read.
Bill Nye - Science CommunicatorDavid Grinspoon's Earth in Human Hands is a hopeful message about Earth's future, that we are in control and have the power to change the outcome for our planet.
Ann Druyan - Writer, Producer