Environmental Science and Society Collapse

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Questions and Answers

What is the term used to describe the proposed new geologic epoch marked by modern human impact?

Ecocentric

Anthropogenic

Anthropocene (correct)

Biocentric

Which worldview suggests that all organisms, regardless of their usefulness to humans, deserve to exist?

Anthropocentric

Instrumental

Ecocentric

Biocentric (correct)

Which of the following best describes the concept of social traps?

Collaboration between groups for mutual benefit

Long-term solutions that benefit the environment

Strategies that prioritize environmental sustainability

Decisions that seem good at the time but have negative outcomes (correct)

What is an impediment to solving environmental problems mentioned in the content?

Social traps and short-term thinking Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of the Vikings' diet being restricted to seal and walrus?

Decline in trade with Europe Signup and view all the answers

What describes a key challenge in solving environmental issues?

Solutions often have trade-offs that create new problems. Signup and view all the answers

What does the concept of the 'triple bottom line' imply for potential solutions?

Successful solutions must be good for the environment, society, and be affordable. Signup and view all the answers

What is implied by living sustainably?

Living within the means of one's environment without depleting it. Signup and view all the answers

What factor contributed to the disappearance of the Vikings in Greenland?

Their adaptation to sea mammals as a food source. Signup and view all the answers

What was a key environmental issue before the Little Ice Age?

Soil erosion becoming a significant problem. Signup and view all the answers

What major factor does NOT contribute to societal collapse?

Technological advancements Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is true regarding environmental science?

It combines both natural and social sciences. Signup and view all the answers

Which example illustrates applied research?

Creating a new solar panel design. Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant effect of deforestation mentioned?

Higher rates of infectious diseases in humans. Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario exemplifies empirical research?

Investigating the response of elephants to predatory sounds. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement regarding societal relations is correct?

Collaborations with friendly societies can prevent collapse. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key definition of empirical science?

It is a scientific approach focused on systematic observation. Signup and view all the answers

What historical example highlights societal collapse due to environmental factors?

The disappearance of the Vikings in Greenland due to climate change. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Dependence on Biodiversity and Ecosystems

Biodiversity and a healthy ecosystem are vital for human, environmental, and wildlife health.
Deforestation contributes to the emergence of infectious diseases in humans.

Factors Leading to Society Collapse

Human environmental impacts, climate change, and political relationships significantly affect societal stability.
Political, economic, social, and cultural dynamics can hinder a society's ability to effectively address problems.

Understanding Environmental Science

Environmental science integrates both scientific and non-scientific disciplines to explore the natural world.
Humans are deeply intertwined with nature, relying on a healthy planet for survival.

Historical Examples of Societal Collapse

Vikings in Greenland faced collapse after 1,000 years due to climate change; populations vanished for 450 years.
Easter Island (1200 CE-1877) and the Khmer Empire (802-1431) illustrate historical examples of societal collapse linked to environmental issues.

Empirical vs. Applied Science

Empirical investigation involves systematic observation and experimentation to understand the natural world.
Applied research uses scientific findings for practical problem-solving, like creating better solar cells.

Research Examples

Studies on coastal dunes and elephant responses to predation are empirical.
Techniques for controlling invasive species represent applied research.

Environmental Challenges

Environmental problems are complex with multiple causes and potential trade-offs in solutions, known as wicked problems.
Environmental literacy can enhance the ability to solve or avert ecological problems.

Sustainable Development

Living sustainably entails using resources within environmental limits and ensuring future generations can meet their needs.
The concept of the triple bottom line emphasizes solutions that are environmentally, socially beneficial, and affordable.

Anthropocene Impact

The Anthropocene denotes the significant effects humans have on Earth's geology and ecosystems.
The term "anthropogenic" describes changes caused by human activity.

Worldviews Affecting Environmental Ethics

Anthropocentric worldview prioritizes human benefits, while biocentric and ecocentric perspectives value all life forms equally, emphasizing ecosystem integrity.
Social traps occur when collective decisions lead to negative long-term consequences despite appearing beneficial initially.

Sustainable Ecosystems

Natural ecosystems sustain themselves by efficiently acquiring energy, utilizing matter, controlling populations, and maintaining local biodiversity.
Mimicking natural ecosystems can enhance sustainability in human societies.

Impediments to Environmental Solutions

Short-term thinking and social traps complicate efforts to resolve environmental issues.
Worldviews influence values and ethical decisions regarding environmental stewardship.

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Description

This quiz explores the connections between biodiversity, ecosystems, and societal stability. Learn about how human impacts and historical examples, such as the Vikings and Easter Island, illustrate the fragility of civilizations in the face of environmental challenges.