Final answer:
The increasing human population contributes to a higher likelihood of mass extinction due to habitat destruction, global warming, and pollution, which collectively result in loss of biodiversity and increased extinction rates.
Step-by-step explanation:
The current theory about the relationship between the human population and mass extinction suggests that as the human population increases, the likelihood of a mass extinction also increases. This is due to several factors, including habitat destruction, increased global warming, and higher levels of pollution. The expansion of human activities leads to more land being cleared for agriculture and development, which results in the destruction of habitats. As habitats diminish, the species that rely on them are either forced to relocate or face extinction.
Furthermore, the exponential increase in waste produced by human activities can lead to further environmental degradation. Effective waste removal and management often require the use of additional land, which can further encroach upon natural habitats, causing a decline in species populations dependent on those habitats. The theories are supported by evidence suggesting that we are currently experiencing a sixth mass extinction, largely driven by human activities.