The Future of Life, The Planetary Killer
Terms and Concepts: Appreciate the symbolic importance of the Sumatran rhinoceros to those concerned with protecting endangered species from becoming extinct. Understand the factors, especially the role of human activities, on the decline of this species. Compare the fate of the Sumatran rhino to that of the abalone and the Tibetan antelope. Appreciate that plants as well as animals have suffered the same fate.
Also understand how the Sumatran rhino is only an example of a much larger problem of human mediated extinction of animals and plants around the world. Wilson compares the extinction of species such as the Sumatran rhino to the inevitable death of an individual. Know why Wilson feels this comparison is a false and even dangerous one. Be able to discuss how the example of the California condor and the Mauritian kestrel are good examples of Wilson’s argument.
Understand that the role of human activity in animal and plant extinction is not new, but can be traced back to our species early history. Be aware of this fact using examples from Australia, Madagascar, and New Zealand. Appreciate the genetic and evolutionary consequences of reducing populations to a few rare individuals and how this complicates the ability of scientists to protect endangered species.
Image of Sumatran Rhino from MSN Encarta.
http://encarta.msn.com/media_461550743/sumatran_rhinoceros.html
- Reading due 8 December.
- First draft due 9 December.
- Comments due 11 December
- Final draft due 15 December.
Essay: Using one of the examples Wilson discusses in this chapter and additional information from other sources. Discuss in detail the fate of an endangered species. Include a discussion of what specific factors have lead to the species present condition and what efforts are underway to help it recover. Be sure to properly cite your sources.
Image of Condor by Sophie Osborn.
See interview in the California Literary Review: http://calitreview.com/226
