Catastrophic Thinking

Catastrophic Thinking explores how over the past two centuries, scientific and cultural ideas about extinction have shaped Western society's understanding and valuation of biological and cultural diversity.

Sepkoski traces the evolution of extinction theories from Darwin's gradualism to Cuvier's catastrophism, showing how these ideas were influenced by political and cultural contexts.

The book highlights how the modern concern with biodiversity and the concept of a sixth mass extinction are deeply embedded in this history.

It also discusses the challenges scientists and policymakers face in defining biodiversity and addressing the ongoing anthropogenic threats to ecosystems.

Sepkoski concludes with a critical reflection on neoliberalism, the Anthropocene, and humanity's role as both destroyer and subject of extinction narratives.