Ask Ethan: Can “following the science” save the Earth?
It’s no secret that, here on Earth in 2026, we’re more scientifically and technologically advanced than ever, and yet — with over 8 billion human beings presently on planet Earth — we’re arguably closer to causing our own self-extinction than ever before. Of the entire planet’s land surface (excluding Antarctica), just 23% of Earth’s wilderness remains . Since the start of the industrial…
The Earth in 2026 is more technologically and scientifically advanced than ever before, yet it is closer to self-destruction than ever before. Only 23% of Earth's wilderness remains, and atmospheric carbon dioxide levels have increased by over 50% since the start of the industrial revolution, causing global temperatures to rise over 1.5°C above pre-industrial values. More than 25,000 nuclear weapons exist across the globe, and the COVID-19 pandemic claimed at least 25 million lives between 2020 and 2021.
Despite these challenges, human civilization possesses the capacity to study these issues and devise solutions. This raises the question: should humanity prioritize understanding how to survive or reverse the destruction of our planet and its resources? Terry M. of Michigan asks, "Should we, as a planet-wide civilization, focus more on understanding how we can survive or reverse the destruction of our planet?"
Science is crucial in identifying and implementing solutions to these problems. By asking questions about the physical and life sciences, scientists can uncover theoretical and practical solutions to even the most complex issues. Science is not just a body of knowledge; it is also the process by which we investigate reality, formulate theories, and self-correct as new information emerges.
In 2026, the choices humanity makes today will determine its path moving forward. Traditional power plants powered by fossil fuels contribute to environmental destruction, but advancements in science can help mitigate these effects. Science can address issues such as atmospheric changes, loss of wilderness, introduction of diseases, pollution, and many others. The key is to utilize the knowledge at our disposal and harness the power of scientific inquiry to find paths that can save humanity from self-destruction.
Written by urgent.news from Big Think's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
