The Gaia hypothesis by James Lovelock : does this hypothesis have meaning to the scientific community? : an honors thesis (HONORS 499)

Abstract

Throughout history, the Earth has been questioned. How did it come into existence? Why is the atmosphere composed of the gases that are found in it? How does one organism, one event, affect the entire planet? When will life cease to exist on this planet?Studies concerning the natural sciences explore such questions concerning the Earth. Studies such as biology, geology, chemistry, and natural resources and environmental management explore individual characteristics of the Earth's organisms and environment. How do these studies work together in creating an understanding of the Earth?This paper explores the ideas of a few scientists who have attributed to various ideas dealing with the Earth and its workings. These ideas will have a particular focus on geology and biology with a discussion concerning the Russian scientist Vladimir Vernadsky who proposed the concept of a biosphere. This discussion will be followed by an examination of the Gaia hypothesis, and the evidence that James Lovelock has found to support the contention that the Earth is alive. The evidence involves both the biota and the environment of the Earth. The paper will conclude with support and criticisms that have followed Lovelock's Gala hypothesis and include additional closing remarks.