Module VII

How is Earth's climate connected to its geological, biological and cultural systems?

Explain and Extend: The climate on Earth is created by the interaction between the geological, biological and cosmic processes that coexist. Cultures have been part of those processes since the beginning. While most human cultures have interpreted the beginning of life as they understood it, scientists have found that evidence of the Earth's creation can be followed geologically and biologically.

For the first billion years of the Earth's existence, it was inhabited by anaerobic bacteria called Thermophilus. Meanwhile the plasma bubble or magnetic field protected the Earth from solar winds and cosmic rays. As the Earth continued to form into what it is present day, it released gases, received big hits from icy comets and sustained a simple life form who ate iron and minerals which when it was pooped out, was oxygen. The cyanobacteria through photosynthesis transformed air and life. As the Earth became more habitable for various microbes, they too began to grow. And, now billions and billions of years later as the elements diversified, humans have evolved. The one who designed all of these phenomenal interactions and processes, God, definitely has immense and infinite plan.

As the Earth geological, biological and cosmic processes continue to support life here as we know it. Humans have evolved into a species that have begun to create more greenhouse gases through industrialization and technological advancements. These changes allow cultures to grow and produce. But, we have beginning to see evidence of anthropogenic climates changes. The Earth with its relationship with the cosmos, geological and biological processes was moving forward without intellectual decisions being made by mankind.

Evaluate: This time of the year in Alaska, I start having serious thoughts about a snow free, dry and warm day during which I could saddle up my horse and go riding through a land of beautiful scenery. I think about how nice it would be to have more of a spring during which the grass in the pastures could get started on growing a little early. With a little extra heat like last summer, I could get a tan just from being outside. After living forty-one years in Alaska, I see no point in worrying about skin cancer. But, as I continue through my life, looking back on the past and living in the present, I do need to consider the future. The resources and content of Module VII have given me a greater understanding of the big picture. As well, I have explored resources about what some people are doing to try to make a difference.