In chapter 5 Kolbert Kolbert describes how many people attempt to perceive unfamiliar information through the lenses of trying to fit it into a familiar framework proven through an experiment done in identifying cards. With this experiment Thomas kuhn a science historian explained science progression due to humans. At first, we try to respond to our new environment using the same strategies we already know. But eventually, we adapt and learn new strategies to survive. This became the concept of the “paradigm shift.” Kolbert meets with stratigrapher Jan Zalasiewicz, who shows her layers of rock dating back 445 million years to the era immediately following the extinction of the dinosaurs and look into other mass extinctions such as the graptolites. The extinction of the graptolites was caused by changes in ocean chemistry as well as by rising sea levels and temperatures. Kolbert’s studies and interviews with renowned scientists produce proof that similar ecological effects are occurring today. Kolbert also learns about Zalasiewicz’s theory of giant rats; rats will take over the planet. Rats have grown in population due to trade. In fact, Chicago has been named the rat capital and nyc comes close as well. They are seen everywhere especially in subway systems. The growing number of rats around the world is causing an imbalance in the food chain by killing other species off closely relating to the theme of humans alter natural systems.
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