"We are buried beneath mountains of fast-accumulating data. In such circumstances, this book, rather than adding to the data load, aims to offer real understanding." -James Lovelock Human beings are extraordinary creatures. Intelligent, agile, and curious, we have adapted and invented our way to becoming the most important species on the planet. So great is the extent of our influence, that many speak of a new geological era, the Anthropocene, an age defined by human-induced change to the blue and green globe we call home. ...
Read More
"We are buried beneath mountains of fast-accumulating data. In such circumstances, this book, rather than adding to the data load, aims to offer real understanding." -James Lovelock Human beings are extraordinary creatures. Intelligent, agile, and curious, we have adapted and invented our way to becoming the most important species on the planet. So great is the extent of our influence, that many speak of a new geological era, the Anthropocene, an age defined by human-induced change to the blue and green globe we call home. Our lofty status comes with responsibility as much as possibility: How should we approach our present and future? What knowledge should we carry with us? Conceived by James Lovelock, inventor of the Gaia theory, this illustrated essay collection brings together an all-star lineup of thinkers and scientists to offer essential understanding about who we are, how we live, and where we might be going. Much as the Gaia theory considers our Earth as an integrated whole of living systems, The Earth and I encourages holistic understanding. Across 12 chapters, we take in both the intricate details and immense structures of our species and our planet, from our ever-expanding universe to our minuscule but mighty cells. We see stellar explosions and the layers of life beneath our feet, delve into the neuroscience of decision-making, get to grips with our climate, and contemplate our increasing intimacy with technology. The book's world-class contributors include quantum physicist Lisa Randall, Astronomer Royal Martin Rees, Pulitzer Prize-winning biologist Edward O. Wilson, and Nobel Prize-winning neuroscientist Eric Kandel. With lively illustrations from British artist Jack Hudson, the result is an inspiration for curious minds young and old, and a trusted tool kit for an informed and enlightened future.
Read Less
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Used-Very Good. Worldy wisdom: The essential companion for our journey into the futureHuman beings are extraordinary creatures. Intelligent, agile, and curious, we have adapted and invented our way to becoming the most important species on the planet. So great is the extent of our influence, that many speak of a new geological era, the Anthropocene, an age defined by human-induced change to the blue and green globe we call home. Our lofty status comes with responsibility as much as possibility: How should we travel through this new Earth age? What knowledge should we carry with us? This illustrated anthology is a guide book for being human in the 21st century. Conceived by James Lovelock, inventor of the Gaia theory, the book encourages holistic understanding. Much as Gaia theory considers our earth as an integrated whole of living systems, The Earth and I brings together an all-star lineup of contributors from across the scientific spectrum to offer wide understanding who and where we are. True to the very best travel guides, The Earth and I takes in the intricate details as much as the immense structures. Across 12 chapters, we zoom in from our ever-expanding universe to our miniscule but mighty cells. We make stopovers in astronomy, geology, neuroscience, and economics. We see stellar explosions, consider the layers of life beneath our feet, get to grips with the facts beneath the climate controversies, and contemplate our increasing intimacy with technology all brought to visual life by the vibrant illustration of British artist Jack Hudson. Our expert travel escorts along the way include quantum physicist Lisa Randall, Astronomer Royal Martin Rees, Pulitzer Prize-winning biologist Edward O. Wilson, and Nobel Prize-winning neuroscientist Eric Kandel. Their captivating accounts of our earth and our existence share not only essential understanding but also thrilling sparks of innovation, opinion, and discovery. The result is an inspiration for curious minds young and old, and a trusted toolkit for an informed and enlightened future. ' Open copy. Light ink staining on front cover.
