Originally Posted by Andrewl

Yes, i find it unlikely that the earth would go so out of balance as to destroy life. But is is false to presume that anything within the system is incapable of destroying the natural systems that keep it in balance. It is easily conceivable that we could deforest the planet entirely or pollute the system beyond its ability to recover in human life spans, and it is likewise conceivable that we could use biological, chemical, or nuclear weapons to permanently alter these systems so as to make it impossible for most forms of life to survive.

Global warming is having an impact on agricultural areas. When you add higher temps (increased evaporation) to the problem of soil erosion and poor water management, not even agricultural areas are immune. No matter how beautiful it may appear at any given time. Everything seemed to working fine with the Titanic until it hit the iceberg, after all.

To see how climate change (not necessarily AGW) can effect agriculture and civil society, one need only look at Darfur or the entire Sahel region of Africa.


Ultimately im not so concerned about the destruction of all life (which we both agree is very unlikely), im concerned about human life and happiness - all the points of suffering between here and our possible extinction.

Andrew