The humans have long indulged themselves in "consumption" and they overlooked the fact that the ecosystem of the earth was made mostly of bacteria, viruses, and plants. Humans have also overlooked the fact that they were the minority. Plants are vital for existence as they provide oxygen for the atmoshpere. Even if the humans should become extinct, it will not endanger the ecosystem. However, it does imperil the humans if the plants, bacteria and viruses become extinct. Carrier's theme is to call attention to the humans, the "arrogant apes" who believe they reign supreme over all life on the planet. They are in fact at the mercy of the ecosystem.