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Riddles in Stone: Controversies, Theories and Myths about Southern Africa's Geological Past - Softcover
Synopsis
Riddles in Stone covers a variety of fascinating controversies and startling differences of opinion that accompanied the evolution of the study of Earth Sciences in southern Africa. Over the centuries, debates have raged amongst geologists, and between geologists and biologists, physicists and theologians, on controversies such as the age of the Earth and its lifespan; Continental Drift; the origin of ore deposits of gold, diamonds, copper and platinum; and Schwarz’s well-meaning but forgotten Kalahari Scheme.
Although scrupulously rooted in scientific literature, this book maintains an accessible and entertaining tone and shows how consensus amongst a majority may be proof of nothing. Geologists, challenged to interpret events that took place billions of years ago, have drawn up theories and hypotheses which may appear either absurdly dated or, from other perspectives, as cutting edge. The introduction of fresh ideas (as in the Plate Tectonic model) or new techniques (as in the dating of rocks using radioactive decay) can realign the thrust of science, leading to the abandoning of traditional ideas and the embracing of new ones.
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About the Author
Hugh Eales is Professor Emeritus of Geology at Rhodes Univers ity, South Africa.
Review
"This is science as story and research as adventure. If this book had been around when I started exploring my surroundings, I'd probably have ended up a geologist. Don Pinnock, South African adventurer and natural history writer This book is riveting and exciting, but also educational and thought provoking.. Thelma Henderson, former geologist, Assistant Dean at Wits and Director for Social Development at Rhodes University"
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- PublisherWits University Press
- Publication date2007
- ISBN 10 186814447X
- ISBN 13 9781868144471
- BindingPaperback
- LanguageEnglish
- Number of pages376
- Rating
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Riddles in Stone: Controversies, Theories and Myths about Southern Africa's Geological Past
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Wits University Press, 2007
ISBN 10: 186814447X
ISBN 13: 9781868144471
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