Short summary
Key points
The extraordinary nature of the moment in which we live produces mixed feelings — excitement and horror
Resourcefulness, despite the frailties of this species, cause them to push into new regions with different climates, different predators, and different prey. They were not deterred by changes in habitat and geography. Traversing rivers, plateaus, mountain ranges, they were able to exert their dominance everywhere they went. Adaptation and innovation enabled them to gather shellfish, hunt mammals and drive further inland.
When they got to Europe, they encountered creatures that were similar to them in many ways but much bigger than them. Through interbreeding with these creatures, they made themselves at home. Then, as it is their custom, they killed their hosts. Huge cats, towering bears, large turtles, sloths and other gigantic animals could not match this unique species. The visitors from eastern Africa outpaced them in reproduction and by sheer numbers, subdued these gigantic animals.
The Sixth Extinction is about identifying this species and exploring their impact on the planet. It also explores the potential salvation of the planet by the same species responsible for its extinction. Remarkable changes need to be made now if the course of history will be altered. Lessons from the first 5 extinctions also furnishes us with an understanding of the terrain so that we can avoid a repetition of mistakes.