Time's Arrow, Time's Cycle is a study of the history of geology as seen in the works of the three English geologists Burnet, Hutton and Lyell. It debunks some of the common myths about their theories and tries to present their ideas without anachronistic bias. As the title suggests, the main contrast is between the cyclic aspects of time (both cosmic cycles and repetitive phenomena) and the directional ones (geological events as unique parts of history). Gould writes with his usual flair and the result will be compulsory reading for anyone interested in the history of geology. Fans of Gould's other books may find it a little dissatisfying, as it is drier and slightly less approachable than his essays. If you haven't read any Stephen Jay Gould you should, but I'd recommend starting with one of his essay collections rather instead of with this volume.

March 1992

External links:

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Related reviews:

- books by Stephen Jay Gould
- more geology
- more history of science