Week 2: Part 3 - Article: Environmental History from Genesis to Apocalypse Flashcards
How does Lowenthal view the impact of industrialization on the environment?
He sees industrialization as a major turning point that intensified environmental exploitation and degradation, disrupting the balance between humans and nature.
True or False: Environmental history solely focuses on natural scientific events without considering cultural influences.
False. Environmental history includes cultural, religious, and philosophical perspectives on nature and how these influence human interactions with the environment.
According to Lowenthal, which of the following is a consequence of viewing nature solely as a resource for human use?
A) Increased biodiversity
B) Sustainable development
C) Environmental degradation and resource depletion
D) Greater harmony with nature
C
What is meant by “cultural artifact” in the context of environmental history?
A “cultural artifact” in environmental history refers to landscapes shaped by human activities and cultural influences, reflecting society’s relationship with the environment.
How does the concept of “Apocalypse” serve as a caution in environmental history?
It warns of possible ecological collapse if current exploitative practices continue, highlighting the need for sustainable choices to prevent irreversible damage.
Does Lowenthal believe that conservation efforts are a modern concept?
No. While modern environmental movements have intensified, conservation concepts have historical roots and evolved over centuries.
What has historically influenced different societies’ approaches to nature?
A) Economic gains alone
B) Cultural, religious, and philosophical beliefs
C) Climate patterns alone
D) Urban development
B
What is the significance of studying historical human activities like agriculture in environmental history?
Studying activities like agriculture reveals early examples of human impact on ecosystems, helping us understand long-term environmental changes and lessons for sustainability.
Summarize the purpose of David Lowenthal’s article “Environmental History from Genesis to Apocalypse.”
Lowenthal’s article explores how human interactions with the environment have evolved over centuries, from early reverence for nature to a focus on exploitation and control. He uses “Genesis to Apocalypse” as a metaphor for this shift, stressing that humanity’s impact on the planet may lead to irreversible damage if current practices persist.
He also emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural, religious, and historical perspectives on nature to inform sustainable solutions and prevent an environmental “apocalypse.”
Explain the importance of the concepts “Anthropocene” and “Sustainable Development” in environmental history, according to Lowenthal.
In Lowenthal’s view, the Anthropocene represents the era where human actions are the primary force shaping the environment, signifying how profoundly we’ve impacted the earth.
Sustainable Development becomes essential in this context, as it advocates for practices that meet present needs without compromising the future.
Lowenthal argues that recognizing these concepts is crucial for shifting away from destructive patterns and embracing practices that balance human advancement with ecological preservation.
