Perils of a Restless Planet
Scientific Perspectives on Natural Disasters

A compelling look at natural disasters and their impact on human lives. Will appeal to scientists and non-scientists alike.

Ernest Zebrowski, Jr (Author)

9780521654883, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 13 May 1999

324 pages, 67 b/w illus.
23.5 x 15.6 x 1.8 cm, 0.46 kg

'A wide-ranging, gratifyingly lively investigation into the more violent ravings of Mother Nature … it is nature's fury that makes this book vibrate.' Kirkus Reviews

From epidemics and earthquakes to tornadoes and tidal waves, the overwhelming power of Nature never ceases to instil humankind with both terror and awe. As natural disasters continue to claim human lives and wreak havoc in their wake, Perils of a Restless Planet examines our attempts to understand and anticipate such phenomena. Drawing upon case studies from ancient to present times, this book focuses on scientific inquiry, technological innovation and public policy to provide a lucid and riveting look at natural disasters. While shedding light on the elusive quality of Nature and the limits scientific study and laboratory replication impose on our understanding of her mercurial ways, the author extrapolates from the history of science to suggest how we may someday learn to warn and protect vulnerable populations on our small and tempestuous planet. Anyone interested in the power of Nature will find this book compelling and informative.

Preface
1. Life on the Earth's crust
2. The evolution of science
3. Hazards of shelter
4. Death and life
5. Restless seas
6. Earth in upheaval
7. Volcanoes and asteroid impacts
8. Deadly winds
9. Science and irreproducible phenomena
Appendices
Index.

Subject Areas: Natural disasters [RNR]