The Starting Point of Modern Geology
The early geologic scientists had little of today’s research to draw from, thus there was widespread belief in catastrophes and cataclysms–in great convulsions reducing mountains to rubble, and vast floods covering entire continents. These false theories of the evolution of the geologic earth continued to prevail, till finally banished by the genius and perseverance of Sir Charles Lyell. His book Principles of Geology is an excellent example of the application of the principles of evolution to the later phases of the earth’s history. It not only revolutionized scientific opinion in its own domain, but prepared the way for the acceptance of the still more novel and startling application of the same principles to the entire organic world. In order to appreciate his contribution it will be important to consider what opinions prevailed at the time it first appeared in order that we may understand how great was the change it effected.
A work which exemplifies the evolution creationism controversy debate is Cuvier’s Essay on the Theory of the Earth. This work abounds in statements which are positively ludicrous to any one conversant with modern geology. It never appeals to known causes, but again and again assumes forces to be at work for which no evidence is adduced and which are totally at variance with what we see in the world to-day. A few examples justifying these statements must be here given. Cuvier shows that he was acquainted with the theory of modern causes, but he altogether rejects it, saying that “the march of nature is changed, and none of the agents she now employs would have been sufficient for the production of her ancient works.”
He adduces “the primitive mountains” whose “sharp and bristling ridges and peaks are indications of the violent manner in which they have been elevated.” He allows that atmospheric agencies may form sea-cliffs, alluvial deposits, and taluses of loose matter at the foot of the precipices, but he adds: “These are but limited effects to which vegetation in general puts a stop, and which, besides, presuppose the existence of mountains, valleys, and plains–in short, all the inequalities of the globe–and which, therefore, cannot have given rise to those inequalities.” He contrasts the calm and peaceful aspect of the surface of the earth with the appearances discovered when we examine its interior. Here, in the raised beds of shells, the fractured rocks, the inclined or even vertical stratification, he finds abundant proofs “that the surface of the globe has been broken up by revolutions and catastrophes.”
