Ronald Bailey Argues that Predictions of a Sixth Mass Extinction Will Likely Prove Wrong

“The Sixth Great Extinction Is Underway—and
We’re to Blame,” Time’s headline declared. “Earth in the
midst of sixth mass extinction,” echoed USA Today. The
headline-writers at The Mirror adopted an even more
apocalyptic tone: “End of the world predicted by scientists who
warn Earth’s animals are heading for mass extinction.” They were
all reacting to a study in Science reporting researchers’
concerns about “mass defaunation.” Nearly identical predictions
made in the late 20th century happily proved wrong. Reason
Science Correspondent Ronald Bailey argues that positive trends in
urbanization, population, forest regrowth, and agriculure could
well forestall the predicted extinctions.

View this article.