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OverviewFossils 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. Full Product DetailsAuthor: Keith Thomson (Professor and Director of Oxford University Museum of Natural History Museum)Publisher: Oxford University Press Imprint: Oxford University Press Dimensions: Width: 11.10cm , Height: 1.00cm , Length: 17.40cm Weight: 0.140kg ISBN: 9780192805041ISBN 10: 0192805045 Pages: 160 Publication Date: 13 October 2005 Audience: General/trade , General Format: Paperback Publisher's Status: Active Availability: To order  Stock availability from the supplier is unknown. We will order it for you and ship this item to you once it is received by us. Table of Contents1: Introduction 2: A cultural phenomenon 3: In the popular imagination 4: Some things we know, some things we don't 5: Against the odds 6: Bringing fossils to life 7: Evolving 8: Of molecules and man 9: Fakes and fortunes 10: Back to the future Further readingReviewsAuthor InformationKeith Thomson is Professor and Director of the Oxford University Museum of Natural History. He writes a regular column for American Scientist, and has published over 200 scientific and popular articles. Publications also include Treasure on Earth (Faber 2002), The Common But Less Frequent Loon (Yale, 1996--nominated for national book award), and The Watch on the Heath (under preparation with HarperCollins). Tab Content 6Author Website:Countries AvailableAll regions |
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