What would a reversal in the Earth's magnetic field mean to us?

Question

I realize there are all kinds of consequences for navigation and potential problems for satellites. But what would a reversal of the magnetic poles mean for the living beings on the planet?

Answer 1

It depends on which theory for the process of a magnetic reversal is correct. If the field instantly reverses then, aside from the navigation problems then there would be little issue for people although I believe certain birds do use the magnetic field for navigation as well so they would have problems.

The more widely accepted theory is that the magnetic field reduces in strength to about 10% and becomes chaotic. This would also have the previously mentioned navigation effects but would also result in the magnetic field offering less protection from the solar wind both in absolute terms and especially so at any of the multiple extra poles that would be created. This would result in more charged particles entering the atmosphere, likely increasing cancer rates. It's all theoretical though.