The Ruddiman Hypothesis: A Debated Theory Progresses Along Interdisciplinary Lines
The Ruddiman Hypothesis: A Debated Theory Progresses Along Interdisciplinary Lines By Rich Blaustein - 24 February 2021 Scientist William Ruddiman is the lead proponent of the Early Anthropocene Hypothesis, which asserts pre-industrial land clearing and agricultural practices caused the release of historically underappreciated amounts of greenhouse gases, transforming the Earth. While Ruddiman’s hypothesis has engendered debate, a recent interglacial-ice age study and interdisciplinary archaeological investigations add nuanced support to Ruddiman’s effort and illuminate how humans have...