Chapter 8: How Are We Different?

Humans are, arguably, the greatest predators on this planet. So what is the difference between us and the other great predators? The answer is that all other predators will control the abundance of their prey species, but not completely eliminate them. Human exploitation of our environment and plant and animal species produces a much different pattern. We tend to drive animals to physical and ecological extinction, where their population numbers are so low that they are unable to complete their ecological jobs. We are driving species extinct at a rate that is over a thousand times faster than the natural rate. So if we're not predators in the classic sense, then what are we?

Humans are considered to be Hyperkeystone Predators. A fancy name that essentially just means that we take out middle, foundation, and keystone species and destroy their habitats as well. We create the most noise out of any species, and the byproducts of our industrious drive render many animal species unable to reproduce at all. Our dominance means that we are the only species on the planet that is free to destroy the ecosystem and not feel the effects of our actions right away, due to our dependence on fossil fuels and our ability to create manufactured ecosystems.

Reading & Discussion Questions 

Answer the following questions in the comments section below after you've finished reading the chapter:

1. Using the link below, visit the Global Footprint Network website. Click on the link to calculate your ecological footprint. How do you feel about your results?

Further Research and REading

The Pristine Seas Project

Global Footprint Network

The Paris Climate Agreement