The author defines the noosphere as: the physical locations, incentives, material conditions, economic arrangements and social formations that make possible the knowledge, theory, observation, description and ideas that constitute (it). This realm of understanding the earth is influenced not just by internal processes but also external processes. These internal properties are the functions of the earth itself, whether it be movements of tectonic plates, the rotation of the earth, and much larger forces. External forces can be very large like the impact of gravity on the earth from other celestial bodies, to a much “smaller” impact of humans on their environment. Categorizing internal and external factors are useful in understanding the effects of the various impactful actions on the earth. Furthermore, certain actions are orders of magnitude greater than one another. Understanding the actions of a single human, even the most “environmentally conscious” actions pale in comparison to the total sum of industries’ activity, many orders of magnitude beyond the single positive action. It also serves as a conduit to ensure that there are ways that scientists and policymakers, alike, can understand and promote the understanding of what processes are the “normal” cycles of the earth, and what changes are caused by these external factors. Additionally, understanding the orders of magnitude of these various actions can provide a platform to aim for the most effective actions and push for their implementation first.
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