Part 9/11:
Interpreting Evidence and Climate Impacts
Archaeologists have debated various theories regarding the extinction of Pleistocene megafauna, often considering human influence as a potential driving factor. Recent genomic science supports the notion that the arrival of humans contributed to the decline of certain animal populations.
One intriguing aspect of this discussion is the parallel drawn with modern climate change debates. Historically, humanity tends to seek external explanations for dramatic changes, often overlooking our direct impact on ecosystems. The extinction of mammoths and other megafauna may have stemmed from human hunting practices disrupting delicate ecosystems, leading to their eventual decline.