Week 2 (Slide 18-20)

Question 1

Define the “Longue durée” in the context of environmental history.

Answer 1

“Longue durée” is a historical approach that focuses on long-term structures and processes, considering the slow and gradual changes in environmental and human interactions over millennia.

Question 2

Why is taking a “Long View” important in environmentalism?

Answer 2

A “Long View” helps us understand the deep-rooted and gradual impact humans have had on the environment, challenging us to think about sustainable practices and harmony with nature in a broader context.

Question 3

The Holocene epoch began approximately how many years ago?

A) 2.5 million years
B) 500,000 years
C) 11,500 years
D) 5,000 years

Answer 3

C

Question 4

True or False: The Anthropocene is an officially approved geological epoch.

Answer 4

False – The Anthropocene, a proposed epoch marked by significant human impact on Earth, is not yet officially approved, and its start date is still debated.

Question 5

Explain the difference between the Holocene and Anthropocene epochs.

Answer 5

The Holocene, which began around 11,500 years ago, is the current epoch that includes all of recorded human history. The Anthropocene is a proposed epoch that highlights humanity’s dominant influence on planetary changes, though its official start and designation are still under debate.

Question 6

What questions does a “Long View” of history encourage us to ask about human-environment interactions?

Answer 6

It encourages questions about sustainability, the concept of living in harmony with nature, what is “natural,” and whether humans can alter their impact on the environment over the long term.

Question 7

The Pleistocene epoch, preceding the Holocene, is best known for:

A) The emergence of modern humans
B) The dominance of large ice sheets and glaciations
C) The establishment of settled human civilizations
D) Widespread industrialization

Answer 7

B

Question 8

True or False: The Holocene epoch includes only a small portion of human history.

Answer 8

False – The Holocene includes all recorded human history and the development of human civilizations.

Question 9

Why might some historians refer to humans as a “virus” in environmental discussions?

Answer 9

This metaphor suggests that humans may be acting harmfully towards the environment, spreading rapidly and consuming resources unsustainably, leading to questions about whether humanity can coexist in balance with the natural world.

Question 10

What is the Quaternary Period?

Answer 10

The Quaternary Period encompasses both the Pleistocene and Holocene epochs, covering the last 2.5 million years, a time marked by repeated glaciations and the evolution of modern humans.

Question 11

Why might the “Long View” of history lead to “startling conclusions” about humans and nature?

Answer 11

It reveals the relatively short time humans have existed compared to Earth’s history, showing how quickly humans have impacted the planet, which may prompt reflection on sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Question 12

During the Pleistocene glacial period, which region shown in the map was covered with extensive ice sheets?

A) The Gobi Desert
B) The Himalayas
C) Greenland and North America
D) The Mediterranean Sea

Answer 12

C