Natural Sciences 191CNS68 - FYS- All My Friends are Dead

Life on Earth has gone through five mass extinction events caused by volcanic eruptions, ice ages and clashing continents. Scientists are now sounding the alarm on a sixth extinction, predicted to be the most devastating event since the asteroid impact that wiped out the dinosaurs. We will learn about the incredible diversity of life and explore how humans are altering environmental conditions and pushing many species to extinction. Throughout this course we will discuss research findings from experts in wildlife conservation, genetics, climate science, and evolution as we piece together an understanding of extinction, what it means for our future, and what we can do to stop it.

Open to Natural Sciences Freshman with a declared major or on the Natural Sciences Exploratory Track.