Plate Tectonics: An Insider's History of the Modern Theory of the Earth. - book review

Science News, March 29, 2003

NAOMI ORESKES

Just 35 years ago, the idea of plate tectonics was novel. Now, it's the pervasive theory of how the major features of Earth came to be. After a short history of the theories that led to this revolution and a primer on plate tectonics, Oreskes presents a series of essays written by 17 scientists who have been influential in advancing this concept. Although many people collaborated on this theory, most were at just four institutions: the University of Cambridge, Princeton, Lamont Doherty Geological Observatory, and Scripps Institute of Oceanography. Together, authors including Dan McKenzie and John Dewey provide perspective on the birth and development of this idea, as well as how scientific ideas come to fruition. Originally published in hardcover in 2002. Westview Pr, 2003, 424 p., b&w photos/illus., paperback, $30.00.