Portland Public Library

Gaia, a new look at life on earth, James Lovelock

eng

Includes bibliographical references (p. [147]-148)

illustrations

no index present

non fiction

Gaia

bibliography

45688436

James Lovelock

a new look at life on earth

Written for the non-scientist, this classic work is a journey through time in space in search of evidence with which to support a new and radically different model of our planet. The book explores the hypothesis that the Earth's living matter--air, ocean, and land surfaces--forms a complex system that has the capacity to keep the Earth a fit place for life. Includes a new Preface by the author. 8 line drawings. In this classic work that continues to inspire its many readers, James Lovelock deftly explains his idea that life on earth functions as a single organism. Written for the non-scientist, Gaia is a journey through time and space in search of evidence with which to support a new and radically different model of our planet. In contrast to conventional belief that living matter is passive in the face of threats to its existence, the book explores the hypothesis that the earth's living matter-air, ocean, and land surfaces-forms a complex system that has the capacity to keep the Earth a fit place for life. Since Gaia was first published, many of Jim Lovelock's predictions have come true, and his theory has become a hotly argued topic in scientific circles. Here, in a new Preface, Lovelock outlines his present state of the debate

In the beginning -- The recognition of Gaia -- Cybernetics -- The contemporary atmosphere -- The sea -- Gaia and man : the problem of pollution -- Living within Gaia