Climate change is no longer a distant threat but a present crisis with the potential to cause catastrophic, extinction-level events. In his transformative book Resurrect Titans, Timothy C. Thompson dives into the realities of this unfolding disaster, offering a sobering yet hopeful exploration of how humanity can confront the dangers we face. Thompson’s work highlights the urgency of taking bold, science-backed actions to mitigate the worst outcomes of global warming.

Understanding Extinction-Level Events
An extinction-level event (ELE) refers to a catastrophic occurrence that results in the widespread loss of species, including humans. In Resurrect Titans, Timothy C. Thompson explains how climate change, fueled by human activities, is accelerating the conditions that could lead to such events. Rising global temperatures, melting polar ice caps, and deforestation are creating a cascade of effects, such as extreme weather events and ecosystem collapses, which could irreversibly threaten life on Earth.
The Role of Atmospheric CO2
Thompson emphasizes in Resurrect Titans that excessive atmospheric CO2 is the root cause of global warming, driving climate systems toward instability. He explains that CO2 acts as a heat trap, intensifying global temperatures and triggering feedback loops like accelerated ice melt and permafrost thaw. These phenomena release even more greenhouse gases, exacerbating the situation. According to Thompson, this relentless cycle underscores the importance of reducing emissions and restoring natural carbon sinks to prevent catastrophic outcomes.
Tipping Points and Their Consequences
In Resurrect Titans, Thompson warns of critical tipping points—thresholds in the climate system that, once crossed, lead to irreversible changes. Examples include the loss of the Amazon rainforest as a carbon sink, the collapse of the West Antarctic ice sheet, and the disruption of oceanic currents like the Gulf Stream. Thompson explains that reaching these tipping points could trigger cascading failures in global ecosystems, potentially resulting in mass extinctions and widespread human suffering.
The Human Factor in Climate Risk
Thompson highlights in Resurrect Titans that human actions are both the cause and the potential solution to climate-induced extinction risks. Activities like deforestation, industrial emissions, and unsustainable land use have significantly weakened the planet’s natural defenses against global warming. At the same time, he notes that humanity has the tools and knowledge to reverse these trends through practices such as sequestration science, reforestation, and renewable energy adoption. Thompson calls on individuals, governments, and industries to act decisively before it is too late.
The Economic and Ethical Imperatives
Thompson argues in Resurrect Titans that addressing climate change is not only an environmental necessity but also an economic and ethical obligation. He points out that the cost of inaction far outweighs the investment needed to implement sustainable practices. Furthermore, he emphasizes the moral responsibility to protect vulnerable populations and future generations from the devastating impacts of climate change. By aligning economic priorities with ecological needs, humanity can create a sustainable path forward.
Hope Amidst Crisis
Despite the grim warnings, Resurrect Titans offers hope for the future. Thompson believes that humanity is capable of overcoming the challenges posed by climate change if we act swiftly and collectively. He highlights success stories in reforestation, renewable energy, and climate policy as evidence that change is possible. By embracing science-based solutions like CMS, Thompson asserts, we can not only mitigate the risks of extinction-level events but also create a more resilient and equitable world.
In Resurrect Titans, Timothy C. Thompson provides a compelling exploration of the link between climate change and extinction-level events. His insights underscore the urgency of addressing the root causes of global warming through bold, science-driven actions. The risks are immense, but so are the opportunities to create lasting change. Thompson’s work serves as both a warning and a guide, inspiring humanity to rise to the challenge and secure a livable future for all.