College Seminar (102-7-01)

Topic

The Gaia Hypothesis

Instructors

Matt Hurtgen
847.491.7539
Tech F392
Office Hours: By appointment

Meeting Info

Technological Institute F391: Tues, Thurs 12:30PM - 1:50PM

Overview of class

Despite massive external changes, Earth's surface has remained suitable for life for most of its history. For instance, the sun emitted about 30% less heat energy when the Earth formed 4.6 billion years ago, and calculations suggest that the Earth's surface should have remained frozen until approximately 2 billion years ago. However, geologic evidence supports the existence of liquid water and life since at least 3.8 billion years ago. This seminar will explore the Gaia hypothesis, developed by James Lovelock and Lynn Margulis, which asserts that the Earth functions as a self-regulating system, with life playing a central role in sustaining the planet's habitability.

Class Materials (Required)

No required materials.

Class Attributes

WCAS College Seminar

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Weinberg First Year Seminars are only available to first-year students.
Add Consent: Department Consent Required
Drop Consent: Department Consent Required