human-impact-on-earth

This chapter presents a demographic calculation estimating that 12.6 billion new human lives will be lived during the 21st century, highlighting the unprecedented scale of human existence and impact. It situates this demographic reality within the context of humanity's growing influence on Earth's climate and ecosystems, emphasizing the tension between rapid environmental change and limited understanding. The chapter also introduces the classical Greek concepts of kairos (the opportune moment) and chronos (linear, ongoing time) to frame reflections on time and responsibility.