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The Human Planet

How We Created the Anthropocene
Series: Pelican Books
4.27 goodreads logo

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( 704 ratings, 80 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Human Planet by Simon Lewis and Mark A. Maslin delves into the profound impact humans have had on Earth's history and environment. It explores the concept of the Anthropocene, a new geological epoch defined by human influence on the planet. The authors blend history, science, and sociology to examine how our actions have reshaped ecosystems and what this means for the future of both humanity and the Earth.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you're intrigued by how humans have shaped the Earth's history and environment. It explores the profound impact humanity has had on the planet, drawing insights from archaeology, geology, and environmental science. History buffs and those interested in the Anthropocene will find the narrative both enlightening and engaging.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

A remarkable exploration of the science, history and politics of one of the most important ideas of our time from two world-renowned experts.

Meteorites, methane, mega-volcanoes, and now human beings; the old forces of nature that transformed Earth many millions of years ago are joined by another—us. 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 dictating Earth's future.

To some, the Anthropocene symbolises 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, religion, and politics linked to our deepest fears and utopian visions.

Tracing our environmental impact through time to reveal when humans began to dominate Earth, Simon Lewis and Mark Maslin show what the new epoch means for the future of humanity, the planet, and life itself in The Human Planet.

Series: Pelican Books

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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Human Planet receives praise for its compelling narrative and thought-provoking content. Reviewers commend its vivid exploration of how humans have profoundly impacted Earth, akin to a Greek tragedy, blending literary flair with scientific insight. It's described as an essential read for understanding the Anthropocene, blending Earth and human history beautifully, while challenging readers to reconsider their role in shaping the future.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780241280881

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 07 June 2018

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Pelican

Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 20.0mm

Width: 110.0mm

Height: 180.0mm

Weight: 263g

Pages: 480

About the Author

Simon L. Lewis is Professor of Global Change Science at University College London and the University of Leeds. An award-winning scientist, he has been described as having 'one of the world's most influential scientific minds'. He has written for the Guardian and Foreign Policy magazine. Mark A. Maslin is Professor of Climatology at University College London, a Royal Society Industrial Fellow, and a Royal Society Wolfson Research Merit Scholar. He is the author of eight books and has written for The Times and New Scientist.

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