Science Friday
How Empire and Environmental Destruction Go Hand-In-Hand
Dec 16, 2024
Dr. Sunil Amrith, a historian at Yale and author of 'The Burning Earth: A History,' dives deep into the links between empire, environmental destruction, and migration over 800 years. He reveals how foundational human conflicts have historically fueled ecological harm, starting as far back as the Mongol Empire. The discussion also highlights the urgent need for peace in climate action and showcases inspiring youth activism driving sustainable practices today. Examining these intertwined crises offers crucial lessons for our future.
18:30
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Quick takeaways
- The history of empires, particularly through events like the Mongol expansion, illustrates the deep-rooted connection between environmental destruction and human activity over centuries.
- Major conflicts, such as World War I and II, reveal how warfare significantly drives resource exploitation, exacerbating environmental degradation and highlighting the need for peace in climate action.
Deep dives
Historical Roots of the Climate Crisis
The climate crisis has deep historical roots, with significant events like the Mongol Empire's expansion in the 13th century marked as critical turning points. This empire catalyzed heightened levels of environmental transformation, establishing early globalization by connecting diverse ecologies and trade routes across Eurasia. Such transformations were pivotal, as they laid the groundwork for escalating environmental exploitation that continues to this day. The impacts of historical empires underscore the long-standing relationship between human activity and environmental change, suggesting that understanding these connections is vital for addressing the climate crisis.
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