Synopses & Reviews
While earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are shaking up the world, there are more exciting happenings in the diverse field of geological science. This fascinating look at the discipline of geology during the past 3 to 4 years casts an eye toward future directions and showcases new ideas and ways of thinking. The broad discipline of geology is as diverse and complex as the planet itself. The most recent advances in the field such as the debate about life on Mars and the melting of the polar ice caps are included. Special attention is given to the changing role of the practicing geologist from that of an explorer and discoverer of mineral resources to that of investigator, mitigator, and predictor of natural and man made environmental hazards. Key individuals are profiled and excerpts of letters, speeches, and articles are used to explain points of view and the meaning of their advances. Numerous sources of additional information including organizations and Internet resources guide readers in further research.
About the Author
BARBARA RANSOM is an internationally known geoscientist with a Ph.D. from the University of California at Berkeley and who now works at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in the Geosciences Research Division.SONYA WAINWRIGHT is a freelance writer with a Bachelor's degree in Earth Science from the University of California at San Diego.
Table of Contents
Preface
Geoscience Today
The Marriage of Geology and Biology
Technology and Geology
Biographical Sketches
Social Issues and Geology
Documents and Reports
Statistics and Data
Careers in Geoscience
Organizations and Associations
Print and Non-Print Resources
Glossary