SIX DEGREES

Six Degrees: Summary of Chapter 4

Six Degrees: Summary of Chapter 4

Introduction

The chapter begins with the introduction to ancient Alexandria and a description of the setting. The author discusses Poseidon, the Lord of the Seas. Alexandria was home to Poseidon, and he is said to ride the waters in a chariot made of giant clamshells. He had the power to bring about storms and thus, cause wreckage. The storms could bring flooding to the city and cause shipwrecks. The times have changed according to the author. Alexandria's history has not been preserved like that of Rome. There are only a few historical places left of ancient Alexandria. Some parts of the city have been engulfed by the sea, and more is changing due to global warming (Lynas, 2008).

Discussion

Global warming is the major theme of this book, and this particular, chapter deals with Egypt. The chapter discusses the changes caused by global warming with reference to Alexandria and regions in its surroundings. The waters are rising, and there are treacherous storms that are washing away beaches. The authorities have to bring in send from a desert in Cairo, Egypt and fill the beaches of Alexandria. This is temporarily preventing the elimination of beaches altogether.

Majority of the economic earnings of Egypt comes from Alexandria, making it the most important city of the country. There is a rising population, with excessive construction in the city. There are too many cars, and this has led to an increase in pollution. There are about four million people in Alexandria (Lynas). Global warming is causing the sea level to rise, which is of a lot of concern for the city of Alexandria. The author refers to the prevalent times as the four degree world. “A study conducted by scientists at the city's university suggested that, by 2050, a rise in sea levels of 50 centimeters would displace 1.5 million people and cause 35 billion dollars of damage” (Lynas, 2008, pp. 186). This is not just a concern for the residents of Alexandria, but also for those of many countries all over the world.

The global phenomenon will affect countries like Bangladesh, which is under the threat of losing a large chunk of its land. This will displace millions of people in Bangladesh. The effects will be seen in cities like Boston, New Jersey, Shanghai, Mumbai, London and Venice. The author gives specific statistics like the estimated rise ...