The Future of Life, Nature's Last Stand
Terms and Concepts: Understand what is meant by the conflict Wilson describes in the opening of this chapter as the natural economy vs. the market economy. Appreciate the reasons why political and religious leaders are not keen on addressing this conflict. Look for several examples of this conflict as you read the chapter. Be able to describe the changes that have taken place on the Hawaiian island since the arrival of the first humans there in terms of the impact of introduced species and agricultural activity on the ecosystems of the islands. Wilson suggests that the changes taking place in Hawaii are an accelerated version of what happen naturally before the arrival of humans. Be able to give examples of this. Understand why some “invasive” species become a disastrous nuisance to the original inhabitants of an ecosystem. Be able to give examples from the Hawaiian experience. Appreciate what the acronym “HIPPO” means and be able to give specific examples from Hawaii of how these five factors lead to the destruction of its ecosystems. In addition, be able to use the plight of frogs and other amphibians worldwide as an example of “HIPPO.” Appreciate how the “hippo” factors are not always obvious. The results of human population growth sometimes show their affect in indirect ways. Be able to detail the Vancouver Island Marmot as an example. Compare this example to what you have learned about Panda Bears in China. Understand the concept of the area-species principle. Use islands and forested areas as examples of this principle. Be able to explain why national parks need to be larger than most countries are willing or able to accommodate. Be able to explain how the combination of road building, forestry in Amazon and Asia affect the health of the ecosystem, extinction of plants and animals and even the climate.
Reading Due: 12 November.
First Draft Due: 13 November.
Commnets Due: 17 November.
Final Draft Due: 20 November.
Essay: Write a detailed account of the changes in the species diversity of the Hawaiian islands since the arrival of humans more than a thousand years ago.
