Homo sapiens, the four elements and the Anthropocene

Abstract

The ‘Anthropocene’ is a concept which has led, and still leads, to much debate. It is meant to define a geological epoch that is characterised by human dominance on the planet Earth. An internationally agreed upon reference point which defines its lower boundary, a so-called Global boundary Stratotype Section and Point (GSSP) or ‘golden spike’, is looked for. In this paper I present my personal opinion that the search for a golden spike is futile, unless the arrival of Homo sapiens on Earth is to be considered as such. My overview of the relation Homo sapiens – Earth shows that the influence of human beings is a gradual one. This overview is based on Homo sapiens’ dealings with the four classical elements: fire, earth, water, and air.