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It was surprising to come across an article on geological or planet-scale phenomena that did not mention human activities as a contributing factor to the changes being discussed. Effects of Anthropocene are still only skin deep.

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Well, we haven't started drilling mantle-depth geothermal vents on an industrial scale yet. That day might be coming though.

Goes back to the George Carlin skit where he more accurately points out that human factors around “damage” to the Earth really only damages humans.

We may cause some extinctions and such, but overall, the Earth and life will go on with or without us.

The damage obviously goes beyond humans (for example coral reefs are getting decimated), but it's true the planet has endured far greater assaults in the past, and life has marched on. Environmentalism is Humanism in disguise. The risk is that we'll soil the crib and turn the planet into a hell-hole for future generations of humans.

AKA Don't shit where you eat.

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