Extinction Is a Natural Phenomenon

question 10

Multiple Choice

Extinction is a natural phenomenon. It is estimated that 99% of all species that ever lived are now extinct. Why then do we say that we are now experiencing an extinction (loss of biodiversity) crisis?

• A) Humans are ethically responsible for protecting endangered species.
• B) Scientists have finally identified most of the species on Earth and are thus able to quantify the number of species becoming extinct.
• C) The current rate of extinction is high and human activities threaten biodiversity at all levels.
• D) Humans have greater medical needs than at any other time in history, and many potential medicinal compounds are being lost as plant species become extinct.
• E) Most biodiversity hot spots have been destroyed by recent ecological disasters.

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Definitions:

General Deterrence

is a theory in criminology that suggests the prevention of criminal behavior through the threat of punishment, aiming to discourage others from committing similar offenses.

Punishing Innocent

The act of subjecting individuals who have not committed any wrongdoing to punishment.

Moral Justification

The process of providing a moral reason or rationale to support or defend an action or behavior.

Legal Justification

The basis under law that explains or defends why an action is considered legal or right.