Week 2: Part 2 - Lowenthal, David - Article: Environmental History from Genesis to Apocalypse

Question 1

True or False: Lowenthal argues that the view of nature has always been one of dominance and exploitation.

Answer 1

False. Lowenthal explains that humans once viewed nature with reverence, but over time shifted to a relationship of dominance and exploitation.

Question 2

What does “Apocalypse” represent in Lowenthal’s framework?

A) The beginning of environmental awareness

B) A return to ancient practices

C) The potential collapse of ecosystems due to human activity

D) The rise of industrialization

Answer 2

C) The potential collapse of ecosystems due to human activity

Question 3

What does Lowenthal use “Genesis to Apocalypse” to illustrate in environmental history?

Answer 3

Lowenthal uses “Genesis to Apocalypse” to illustrate the full scope of humanity’s relationship with nature, from ancient coexistence to potential environmental collapse due to modern exploitation.

Question 4

Yes or No

Does Lowenthal view environmental history as only a scientific study of nature?

Answer 4

No. He views environmental history as a bridge between natural sciences and human history, seeing the landscape as both cultural and ecological.

Question 5

Match the concept to its description:

Concepts:
Anthropocene
Preservation
Conservation
Sustainable Development

Descriptions:
A) Protecting nature from human interference

B) Responsible resource use to avoid depletion

C) Meeting current needs without harming future generations’ needs

D) Epoch where human activity dominates environmental change

Answer 5

Anthropocene - D
Preservation - A
Conservation - B
Sustainable Development - C

Question 6

Define “Apocalyptic Narratives” in environmental history.

Answer 6

Scenarios predicting catastrophic environmental collapse due to human exploitation and overuse of natural resources.

Question 7

According to Lowenthal, what are some historical human activities that have impacted ecosystems?

Answer 7

Agriculture, urbanization, industrialization, and deforestation are a few activities highlighted by Lowenthal as impactful on ecosystems.

Question 8

When did significant environmental awareness begin to rise according to Lowenthal?

A) The Renaissance
B) The Romantic movement and the 19th century
C) The Industrial Revolution
D) Ancient Greece

Answer 8

B) The Romantic movement and the 19th century

Question 9

True or False: Sustainable development focuses solely on conserving resources for the present generation.

Answer 9

False. Sustainable development focuses on meeting current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs.

Question 10

What is the Anthropocene?

Answer 10

The Anthropocene is the current epoch in which human activity is the dominant influence on climate and the environment.