Fossils: A Very Short Introduction

Nonfiction, Science & Nature, Nature, Fossils, Science
Cover of the book Fossils: A Very Short Introduction by Keith Thomson, OUP Oxford
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Keith Thomson ISBN: 9780191578021
Publisher: OUP Oxford Publication: October 13, 2005
Imprint: OUP Oxford Language: English
Author: Keith Thomson
ISBN: 9780191578021
Publisher: OUP Oxford
Publication: October 13, 2005
Imprint: OUP Oxford
Language: English

Fossils have been vital to our understanding of the formation of the earth and the origins of all life on it. However, their impact has not been limited to debates about geology and evolution: attempts to explain their existence has shaken religion at its very roots, and they have remained a subject of ceaseless fascination for people of all ages and backgrounds. In this delightful book, Keith Thomson provides a remarkably all-encompassing explanation of fossils as a phenomenon. How did Darwin use fossils to support his theory of evolution? What are 'living fossils'? What fossils will we leave behind for future generations to examine? Building on the scientific aspects, he places fossils in a very human context, highlighting their impact on philosophy and mythology, our concept of time, and today's popular culture. What quickly becomes obvious is that the discovery of fossils and the ways in which they have been interpreted over time makes for fascinating reading. From the black market to the Piltdown Man, and from mythological dragons to living dinosaurs, fossils hold a permanent place in the popular imagination. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

Fossils have been vital to our understanding of the formation of the earth and the origins of all life on it. However, their impact has not been limited to debates about geology and evolution: attempts to explain their existence has shaken religion at its very roots, and they have remained a subject of ceaseless fascination for people of all ages and backgrounds. In this delightful book, Keith Thomson provides a remarkably all-encompassing explanation of fossils as a phenomenon. How did Darwin use fossils to support his theory of evolution? What are 'living fossils'? What fossils will we leave behind for future generations to examine? Building on the scientific aspects, he places fossils in a very human context, highlighting their impact on philosophy and mythology, our concept of time, and today's popular culture. What quickly becomes obvious is that the discovery of fossils and the ways in which they have been interpreted over time makes for fascinating reading. From the black market to the Piltdown Man, and from mythological dragons to living dinosaurs, fossils hold a permanent place in the popular imagination. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

More books from OUP Oxford

Cover of the book Byzantine Art by Keith Thomson
Cover of the book The Framework of Corporate Insolvency Law by Keith Thomson
Cover of the book Smith, Hogan, & Ormerod's Criminal Law by Keith Thomson
Cover of the book Adolescence: A Very Short Introduction by Keith Thomson
Cover of the book Professor Higgins's Problem Collection by Keith Thomson
Cover of the book The Energy Security Paradox by Keith Thomson
Cover of the book Practical Intelligence and the Virtues by Keith Thomson
Cover of the book Strong Experiences with Music by Keith Thomson
Cover of the book Breaking Rules: The Social and Situational Dynamics of Young People's Urban Crime by Keith Thomson
Cover of the book Econometrics of Panel Data by Keith Thomson
Cover of the book From International to Federal Market by Keith Thomson
Cover of the book Public Health Informatics by Keith Thomson
Cover of the book Collective Emotions by Keith Thomson
Cover of the book Morality and the Nature of Law by Keith Thomson
Cover of the book The Politics of Justifying Force by Keith Thomson
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy