Geology and the Environment - Softcover

Pipkin, Bernard W.; Trent, Dee D.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0314092390 ISBN 13: 9780314092397

Publisher: Brooks Cole, 1997

Synopsis

This introductory text for non-science majors explores the relationship between humans and the geologic hazards, processes, and resources that surround them. Medical geology, environmental law, land-use planning, and engineering geology are discussed within the context of each geologic situation rather than as separate chapters at the end of the text. Numerous case studies highlight the diverse issues surrounding recent geologic events. Consider This interactive questions have been added to each chapter. Expanded photo galleries illustrate the wonder and beauty of geologic events. The second edition also contains a new chapter on geology and change, expanded coverage of geology and health, and a new section on earth systems.

About this title

About the Author:

Dr. Bernard W. Pipkin is Professor Emeritus at the University of Southern California. He received his doctorate from the University of Arizona and is a licensed geologist and certified engineering geologist in the state of California. After graduation he worked for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on a variety of military and civil projects, from large dams to pioneer roads in rough terrain for microwave sites. He has been a consulting engineering geologist as well as a university teacher since 1965. Dr. Pipkin is past president of the National Association of Geology Teachers and is a Fellow in the Geological Society of America. He hosted the PBS 30-part program Oceanus that won a local Emmy for Best Educational Television Series. In 1995 he shared the Clare Holdredge Award with Richard Proctor from the Association of Engineering Geologists for their book ENGINEERING GEOLOGY PRACTICE IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA. He currently lectures on geology on cruise ships and at last count, he and his wife Faye have been involved in 26 cruises throughout the world. Dr. Pipkin is a private pilot with a flight instructor's rating; he took many of the aerial photos in the book. They have three grown children and five grandchildren and live south of Los Angeles on the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

Review:

"I will continue to adopt this text because it is best for my students."

"I do like the approach of this text, in that it places us humans on a very dynamic Earth, with recent examples of human/geologic interactions. Starting out with the population explosion of and sustainability is entirely appropriate... Since I started this review the course has come to a close and I have read student evaluations. 31 out of 35 respondents rated the text good, interesting, and/or clear. I quote a few of the students' comments on the textbook here: 'I really liked the textbook we used; I actually didn't mind reading it every day! As a matter of fact, I'm going to keep it as a reference in the future. The pictures and case studies were very well done and interesting.' 'Illustrations are excellent. The 'Case Studies' are a very important component, presenting unusual or interesting situations and thereby piquing the students' interest.'"

"The writing style in the book is excellent and easy to follow and the pace of the topic development is suitable to the way I teach the course...It is rare that I skip sections or choose an alternative order. I am impressed with the currency of the text. Not only are recent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions mentioned, but also recent political decisions regarding the environment. I would strongly argue to keep this text on the basis of the students' positive response."

"In reading this book I can sense that it is written by real-life professionals who have seen and felt and experienced what they are writing about. This is invaluable."

"After reviewing this text, I am encouraged. The textbook is up-to-date, logically organized, well-written, and informative...The photos and diagrams are relevant and clearly illustrate the concepts discussed in the text without being too profuse...The end-of-chapter resources are very well done and comprehensive. In summary, I really like this text -- kudos to the authors."

About this edition

• Publisher: Brooks Cole
• Publication date: 1997
• ISBN 10: 0314092390
• ISBN 13: 9780314092397
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 500