Geochemistry and the Biosphere [Illustrated] [Paperback]

Vladimir I. Vernadsky (Author), Frank B. Salisbury (Editor)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0907791360 | ISBN-13: 978-0907791362 | Publication Date: April 1, 2007

Synergetic Press is proud to announce the long-awaited release of GEOCHEMISTRY AND THE BIOSPHERE, a meticulously edited, reader accessible, first English translation of the Russian essays by Vladimir I. Vernadsky (1863-1945). Vernadsky is the highly venerated father of several geo-based disciplines, including geochemistry, biogeochemistry, and radiogeology. He wrote the first scientific theory about the biosphere, the life zone of the Earth, and in the process laid the groundwork for planetary thinking. A recognized catalyst, this premier scientific work addresses in detail humanity s impact on the living systems of the planet. GEOCHEMISTRY AND THE BIOSPHERE contains his groundbreaking work on the biosphere and the noösphere, as well as his seminal work on geochemistry. Says Deborah Snyder, Chief Executive of Synergetic Press: The publication of these essays, written over sixty years ago, comes at an auspicious time. We have reached a point on our planet when serious debate on what to do about global warming can no longer be postponed an understanding of Vernadsky s work on the biosphere and noösphere is absolutely central to such conversations. It is our hope that bringing Vernadsky s ecological vision to the English speaking world will help deepen our understanding of planetary processes and enable us to become better stewards of our planet. Vernadsky maintains that the biosphere is a thin strata, a separate geological envelope, inhabited by living matter, the force of which exerts changes in its physical, chemical, and mechanical properties. Moreover, this envelope is permeated by cosmic energy, which works even greater changes. Thus the biosphere, the stage on which changes are played out, will evolve over time. According to Vernadsky, from the biosphere a noösphere -- a biosphere influenced by the activity of the human mind -- will ultimately emerge. Vernadsky writes, Mankind s power is connected not with its matter but with its brain, its thoughts and its works, guided by its mind. In the geological history of the biosphere, a great future is opened to Man if he realizes it and does not direct his mind and work to self-destruction. Snyder adds: Vernadsky was very much ahead of his time. Had his work been more widely translated, his name would be to biospherics what Einstein s is to relativity or Darwin s to evolution. In Russia there are stamps, coins, streets, monuments, museums, libraries, mountain ranges, and more that bear his name or portrait. Throughout the world there are foundations and scholarships named after him. This release in English of his most important work is a significant contribution to Earth sciences. In addition to profound insights into connections between organisms and their environment, GEOCHEMISTRY AND THE BIOSPHERE provides rare glimpses into a highly original scientific mind able to integrate knowledge of mineralogy, biochemistry, geochemistry, crystallography, soil science, and the history of science. The scope of his genius alone makes Vernadsky essential reading for scientists, academics, students, and general readers interested in understanding the present and future role of humans on the Earth.

Editorial Reviews

Review

It is heartening to see this result of years of careful editorial work that has given us a timeless piece of scholarship, in which we witness a truly global systems thinker who was a hundred years ahead of his time. Today, the general insights of Vernadsky, regarding the life-enhanced interconnectivity of air, soil, and water, need to become the shared visions of everyone. As a key contribution to the history of biospheric science, this book helps that crucial task. -- Tyler Volk, Professor of Biology, Codirector Earth and Environmental Science Program, NY University Highly recommended for upper-division undergraduates through professionals.

Highly recommended for upper-division undergraduates through professionals. --E. J. Kormondy, emeritus, University of Hawaii at Hilo Choice: Current Reviews for Academic Libraries

Vernadsky was a towering pioneer in understanding life on Earth and life coevolving with Earth. His protean range and profound insight shaped our worldview and continues to anticipate our learning. -- Amory Lovins Cofounder and CEO, Rocky Mountain Institute

About the Author

Vladimir Vernadsky (1863-1945) was a Russian geochemist and mineralogist who is considered to be one of the founders of geochemistry and biogeochemistry. This complete translation of his ground-breaking work, The Biosphere, is essential reading for anyone looking to comprehend the nature of the Earth in its planetary, cosmic scale. The term "biosphere" which is much used today was first introduced to scientific world in 1926 when Vernadsky published a monumental research paper entitled "The Biosphere" (first published in English in1984 by Synergetic Press). Vernadsky continued to work on theory of the biosphere till the end of his life.

Product Details

• Paperback: 427 pages
• Publisher: Synergetic Press (April 1, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0907791360
• ISBN-13: 978-0907791362
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6.5 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.8 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #927,565 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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