Reviews (236)

Powerful message
Congratulations to Al Gore for taking on a subject largely regarded as anathema by the US political establishment. Yes the science is still unsure on many of the issues, however, it IS becoming increasingly apparent that C02 emissions from industry, petrol engines etc are contributing to driving global temperatures upwards. That said, there is truth though that global warming is a natural event because thanks to analysis carried out on ice samples from the Greenland permafrost, thousands of years old, we have a clear record of many natural warming cycles going back millennia.
What was Gore's degree in? Oh yeah, journalism
Oh please... what scientific background does this guy have???? What a joke!The stuff in this book is more sophmoric than a prom.This is a political treatise with no scientific value at all.What is my degree in?Well, I have 3: BS chemistry, MS environmental science and a JD (Law).

From the inventor of the Internet????
For the lunatic Lefties and Wingnuts, this is a "Bible".From someone who lost an election, whined and wimpered until told to "shut up" by the USSC, we get this garbage dumped on the fools who would believe it.
Read more

Subjects:  1. Climatic changes    2. Ecology    3. Environmental Conservation & Protection - General    4. Environmental Science    5. Environmental Studies    6. Environmental aspects    7. Global warming    8. Nature    9. Nature/Ecology    10. Science / Environmental Science   

Reviews (4)

Highly disappointing
While the class I took that used this textbook was informative, this book was full of what seemed to be the authors' personal opinons.Like another person said here in the reviews about blame on the Bush administration, and lack of references aside from photo credits, this book seemed to be geared more towards giving you the biased outlook of the author than an unbiased view of environmental science.
Interestign articles with a thick political spin
This revision must have been specially produced just to include all the anti-Bush rhetoric.In nearly every chapter, responsibility for the current state of the environment is laid squarly on President Bush's administration.
One of the Best
This is one of the most readable environmental texts I've seen.
Read more

Subjects:  1. Ecology    2. Environmental Science    3. Environmental Studies    4. Environmental sciences    5. Human Ecology    6. Life Sciences - Ecology    7. Science    8. Science/Mathematics    9. Textbooks    10. Ecological science, the Biosphere    11. Science / Environmental Science   

Editorial Review

Paper or plastic? Neither, say William McDonough and Michael Braungart. Why settle for the least harmful alternative when we could have something that is better--say, Read more

Reviews (59)

everyone should read this book
We need change to the core, specifically on how we make, use and dispose of our "THINGS"... this is not a HOW TO book, so do not expect hands on solutions to problems you want to solve. It's more a wider view of just how much damage we are causing, and it's just mind blowing how much we can actually change by thinking different.
All is not lost!
This book is just the ticket for the average environmental pessimist.A refreshing and optimistic look at the future.It's simple, it makes sense, and it has the udeniable ring of truth.

The people criticizing this book have "misguided" all over them
There were a lot of complaints that the book wasn't specific enough, didn't give every detail to their examples, or didn't provide any examples at all. Newsflash: it was not the authors' goal to redesign our entire civilization. Their goal was to point out that it will eventually need to be done, should be done, and hopefully, with the examples they did provide, can be done. If you are disappointed a specific problem in our society wasn't solved, why don't you do as the book directed, take a few steps back, and come up with your own "effective" solution.
Read more

Subjects:  1. Environmental Conservation & Protection - General    2. Environmental Science    3. Environmental aspects    4. Industrial Design - General    5. Industrial management    6. Life Sciences - Ecology - Recycling    7. Recycling (Waste, etc.)    8. Science    9. Science/Mathematics    10. Nature / Environmental Conservation & Protection   

Reviews (2)

Very dissatisfied with this seller
I purchased a textbook on May 11 and it supposedly shipped on May 15, 2006.It is now June 2 and I have yet to receive this order.I do not believe that it takes 21 days for a book to arrive.What is even more infuriating is that the seller has ignored all my e-mails regarding my order.I definitely have every intention of letting Amazon know just how poorly this seller treats customers and I expect that Amazon will have to refund my money because these people won't even acknowledge a customer once they have your money.I WILL NEVER BUY FROM THIS SELLER AGAIN UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES!!!!

A great book covering everything
This textbook is one of the best scientific books I have seen.Not only does it cover earth science (like geology), but astronomy and meteorology also.It covers every topic that you possibly want to know about.The authors leave no information out.I had to use this for Science Olympiad, and it helped me so much.The explanations are great, the images beautiful, and the diagrams very helpful.I would suggest this for anyone that has an interest in Earth Science or Meteorology.It is a great book. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Earth Sciences - General    2. Earth sciences    3. Science    4. Science/Mathematics    5. Science / Earth Sciences   

Reviews (8)

Is Darwinism bad for the environment?
On one level this is an eloquent plea for an environmental awakening sounding the alarm on the destruction of species diversity. But this clarion call is marred by the introduction of Wilson's Darwinian obsessions. The age of environmental exploitation has also been the age of the reign of the false theoretical constructs of Darwin and his misleading and socially destructive theory of natural selection. The book even includes a hectoring section about the laws of biology, which is bad science and concealed propaganda. Wilson should know better. Biologists fancy themselves the sages of nature, but in fact the reductionist positivism of their methodology constitutes a misunderstanding of nature and reflects the concealed ideology of classical liberalism that is responsible for the indifferent ravaging of natural resources and environments. So behind the fine words Wilson is really a spokesman and ideologist for the problem, not the solution.
A Plea for the Religious & the Secular to Work Together for the Biosphere
Thank you Edward O. Wilson for taking this burden on your shoulders; for making the plea to the religious among us to abandon the Dominionist principle that the Earth is here to be bent to humankind's will and save the biodiversity that makes our lives livable.
One long appeal
When Charles Darwin published "The Origin of Species" he declared it to be "one long argument".Today, less than 150 years later, Edward O. Wilson explains that the one species omitted [except for one sentence] from the "argument" is devastating the life of the planet.In one long appeal to a fictional Baptist pastor, Wilson describes what is clear to all but a few dedicated die-hards - life on this planet is in deep trouble.The die-hards are firmly identified in the opening passages; Christians in the US who regard themselves as "biblical literalists".Such folk expect the Apocalypse soon and saving the environment is of little concern.
Read more

Subjects:  1. Biology    2. Creation    3. Environmental Science    4. General    5. Life Sciences - Evolution    6. Philosophy & Social Aspects    7. Religion & Science    8. Science    9. Science/Mathematics    10. Christianity    11. Science / Environmental Science    12. Science: General Issues   

Subjects:  1. Americanisms    2. Dictionaries - General    3. Earth Sciences - Geography    4. Geography    5. Language Arts / Linguistics / Literacy    6. Names, Geographical    7. Reference    8. Terminology    9. United States    10. Reference / Dictionaries   

Reviews (1)

Very Detailed
This is a very detailed textbook. If you want to learn about Geology in great detail this is the book for you. I recently learned that a new version will be coming out soon. I know this because my university will not buy the book back since the new edition will replace this edition next semester. If you plan on buying this book wait because the price will go down as soon as the new edition comes out. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Earth Sciences - Geology    2. Science    3. Science/Mathematics    4. Geography    5. Science / Geology   

Subjects:  1. Environmental Science    2. General    3. Geography    4. Globalization    5. Political Science    6. Politics/International Relations    7. Travel - General    8. Regional geography    9. Science / Geography   

Reviews (6)

Book
I have still failed to recieve the Book Geosystems: An Intoduction to Physical Geography.This is the only book that i have not yet recieved out of the books i have ordered.It has been 2 months and still no book. I will be asking for a full refund if the book is not in my possessionby the end of this month.
Time
I received my textbook on time and it was just the condition that it was suppose to be.

Geosystems/Sixth Edition
Good Book!Lots of good illustrations and examples, with an overubundance of current world data, and concepts.This book would be great to use in conjunction with classroom lectures for a sixteen week or full semester course, so that you have an opportunity to absorb pertinent material.With the amount of information in this book I would not recommend its' use for a short eight week internet course. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Earth Sciences - Geography    2. Physical geography    3. Science    4. Science/Mathematics    5. Science / Geography   

Reviews (3)

Reviews, anyone?
This is an excellent textbook, one that I have used in two of my Environmental Science classes (namely, Environmental Problems of Man [Bio 11], and Energy for the Future [Envi Sci 1].) While not completely without bias (which is mostly subtle, and not totally incorrect), the book offers a solid introduction to many environmental issues. The introduction chapter of the textbook states that environmental science is interdisciplinary, and the book is laid out accordingly. Chapters run the gamut from biology, chemisty, simple physics, and pure ecological common sense. An excellent purchase for any serious scientist and/or conscientious environmentalist.

hmm
I'm kinda dissappointed because the seller stated that this book is hardcovered. But when I received it, it was copied and paperback.

Required Reading
I bought this book for my class because it was cheaper at Amazon than at my school's bookstore.(shipping was cheaper too!)It's not an exciting read, but has some valuable information about how us humans are ruining the Earth with our SUVs and abuse of fossil fuels. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Development - Sustainable Development    2. Environmental Science    3. Environmental Studies    4. Environmental policy    5. Environmental sciences    6. Human ecology    7. Life Sciences - General    8. Science    9. Science/Mathematics    10. Science / Environmental Science   

Reviews (9)

Nontechnical Guide to Petroleum Geology, Exploration, Drilling and Production (2nd Edition)
I am a new Environmental Planner to the oil and gas industry, this book has been an integral part of my learning process. Easy to read and quite thorough- I am very satisfied and haven't found the need for another book.

Easy as pie.
The nontechnical guide arrived in the mail in the speedy fashion typical of Amazon.I ripped into the packaging, withdrawing my hardbound book on Petroleum knowledge.I quicklyflew threw the pages of the book, noting how the information was presented.Well organized according to subject, ie Geology, exploration, Drilling and Production,each one of these areas of the oil industry was explained in simple, easy to understand language, and would allow this book to be used as a class room text.There were many pictures, diagrams and drawn out explanations about the subject being explained.The material presented information in a specific area and in a manner that was easy to absorb, find again and use.
Very informative book - a must have for the Petroleum industry
We purchased this book to supplement some internal training for our company. It is the most comprehensive book on the subject that I have found, and we did a lot of research. We will be using it for a pre-requisite to a geology course for all of our new employees.
Read more

Subjects:  1. Earth Sciences - Geology    2. Engineering - General    3. Geology    4. Petroleum    5. Petroleum engineering    6. Prospecting    7. Science/Mathematics    8. Technology    9. Technology & Industrial Arts    10. Petroleum geology   

Reviews (17)

This book makes the hobby 'real' for my kids
I purchased this book after my children (4, 5) developed an interest in collecting sea glass after finding their first pieces on the beach. This summer we collected pounds of the stuff on vacation, and the children couldn't wait to get home to the book to see if they had found any rare colors (we found gray, pink and black!).
Love it
I love this book. the pictures are wonderful...i am going to look for more seaglass...thank you

Pure Sea Glass
This a wonderful book - whether you are a sea glass collector or not!The photography is beautiful and there is a wealth of information for both the serious and novice collector.I immediately looked through my collection for "finds" and can't wait to get back to the beach to find more. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Crafts / Hobbies    2. Glass & Glassware    3. Nature    4. Nature/Ecology    5. Oceans & Seas    6. Sea glass   

Subjects:  1. Earth Sciences - Geology    2. Geology (General)    3. Physical Geology    4. Science    5. Science/Mathematics    6. Textbooks    7. Geology & the lithosphere    8. Science / Geology   

Reviews (7)

BUYERS BE AWARE 8th Edition Published
Fall 2004 & Spring 2005 Students: the 8th edition of this book is published and comes with a CD, and, in some cases, a free world atlas. Check with your instructor for requirements. In any case, I wouldn't spend $100 for the 7th edition.
Very well-written and illustrated text with great photos
Obviously written by authors who have a deep appreciation for this subject and a desire to pass on their knowledge, this text is useful not just for students of physical geography, but for anyone wanting a deeper understanding of geopolitics, area studies, anthropology, world history, etc. For example, I would have no clue about the culture, history and politics of Central Asia/Afghanistan and vicinity (my area of interest) without having a comprehensive understanding of the physical terrain and climate of this region--and how its inhabitants have adapted to it. I would not have gained this understanding without reading this text. still on my bookshelf
I remember this book from when I was an undergraduate, lo these many years ago (OK, so it was an earlier edition)! I'm glad to see it is still available and updated -- I enjoyed it then and I am using it now in answering the questions my children throw at me. Read more

Subjects:  1. Earth Sciences - Geography    2. Physical Geography    3. Science    4. Science/Mathematics    5. Science / Geography   

Reviews (58)

The Gathering Heat
It has been estimated that the earth was formed about 4.5 billion years ago and that human beings have inhabited the planet only about 10 to 12 thousand years - ever since the thawing of the last ice age. During our relatively brief time on this planet, we have been fortunate to enjoy moderate temperatures. However, according to Tim Flannery as well as many other students of climate science, the consumption of fossil fuels such as oil, coal, and wood is releasing so much carbon dioxide into the atmosphere that the earth is now warmer than anytime in the last 650,000 years. This is common knowledge to people who read and listen to the news. What is interesting about Flannery's well-written and well-researched book is that he describes in detail the consequences of a few degrees in temperature rise. If the earth's temperature rises a few degrees thousands of species and ecosystems will die, a few more still and it will kill off the human race.
Another book on global warming?You bet!
I was a bit skeptical picking this book up, as this looks like just another book on climate change, and written by an Australian to boot.I gave it a chance, and was impressed.
The future is in our hands
Here is a well-written, factual, easy-to-read book on how we are affecting our planet and the urgency for all of us to change our ways.Everyone should read this book and take note of the great impact we have on our planet and what we can do to abate the destruction we are leaving in our wake.This book will change how you live your life forever. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Climate Changes    2. Climatic changes    3. Earth Sciences - Meteorology & Climatology    4. Environmental Conservation & Protection - General    5. Environmental Science    6. Global warming    7. Nature    8. Science    9. Science/Mathematics    10. Weather    11. Nature / Environmental Conservation & Protection   

Reviews (12)

A significant rallying cry for Geographers, who appear academically lost in 'space'
Those earth systems scientists involved in global change modelling, andgeographers willing to dab at policy, would benefit from examining Lovelock's pedictions for thefuture state of our planet as we fail to stop carbon emissions.The most significant part of the book (for a geographer): Lovelock predicts climate change will force mass migrations as portions of continents rapidly become inhospitable to our species.
Seperating Scientist from Environmentalist
Excellent book which really pushes the urgency of global warming based on science. It's too late for sustained development. The case is made for nuclear power and how that might be the only technology that can save the planet. A must read for a scientific view of man's damage to the planet -- not an environmentalist view.

winter
There are many wise people sounding warnings but no one of great consequence making an urgent stand and bravely attempting to lead the essential battle. Terrorism is the thorn of a rose compared to environmental catastrophe. We should fight to save the world with a religious zeal. But where is the call to arms? Al Gore needs to run for president because the prophet of doom role, really, doesn't do anyone any good. Knowledge doesn't keep you alive. I rather see humanity make a mistake trying to rescue the planet than take no action at all. Why is everyone asleep? What then shall we do? ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Climate Changes    2. Climatic changes    3. Earth Sciences - Meteorology & Climatology    4. Environmental Science    5. Environmental Studies    6. Gaia hypothesis    7. Global warming    8. Science    9. Science/Mathematics    10. Chemical pollution   

Reviews (2)

Authors biased towards India.
In the chapter about South Asia, the authors have written quite a lot about the "Kashmir problem" but not once have they mentioned the ethnic cleasing of 350,000 Kashmiri Hindus that took place in 1990. I just cannot believe that they don't know about this.

Nice features -- but disorganized
It reads okay, but it is difficult to retrieve information as a resource for homework. The topics are inconsistant from chapter to chapter and are not oriented to the geographical topics defined in the Intro. Read more

Subjects:  1. Earth Sciences - Geography    2. Geography    3. Science    4. Science/Mathematics    5. Textbooks    6. Science / Geography   

Reviews (2)

The biblia
This is a book that everyone who works with water analysis have to buy.

Easly Understood by Geochemists
The "Standard Methods" is very well understood even for those in the non-Chemistry area that deals with environmental chemistry/geochemistry of natural waters. Besides the analytical work, many important aspects related to sampling and data interpretation are there. The 2005 Edition makes these tasks much easier. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Environmental Engineering & Technology    2. Medical / Nursing    3. Public Health    4. Science/Mathematics    5. Technology   

Subjects:  1. Atomic spectroscopy    2. Chemical elements    3. Chemistry - Analytic    4. Science    5. Science/Mathematics    6. Spectra    7. Spectroscopy & Spectrum Analysis    8. Tables    9. Chemical spectroscopy, spectrochemistry    10. Magnetic resonance    11. Science / Spectrum Analysis   

Editorial Review

Bestselling historian Douglas Brinkley, a professor at Tulane University, lived through the destruction of Hurricane Katrina with his fellow New Orleans residents, and now in Read more

Reviews (73)

The Great Deluge--Great but tragic
Having becoming acquainted with Mr. Brinkley via the tv interview--I knew I must read this book. Having read of the overwhelming sorrows and heartbreaks of this storm, I am now very disallusioned with many of our higher ranking government officials, the first being Michael Chertoff and not stopping at his level either. To really get an accurate fix on what happened with katrina, this book is a must read.

Too opinionated!
If you hate President Bush, you'll love this book.But if you are seeking a true historical account (which the book does not contain unfortunately) of a major disaster without all the left-wing editorial padding, skip this book.

CRESENT CITY
Douglas Brinkley loves New Orleans and you can feel his pain for his beloved city in every page.This is a man who wants New Orleans to come back better, as a city that works and where corruption is not rampant and he spells out what went wrong and what can be done to make New Orleans whole again.It is a well written, tough love letter to the city and I hope everyone in New Orleans reads this.I am very familiar with the city and I am very skeptical, especially when they reelected Mayor Nagin, that is old New Orleans, it's really up to the city because if they are not willing to change the culture of corruption and institutional poverty, then the city will end up a Savannah..a quaint strange town of no real national importance..what a fate for one of the great American cities.Come on, New Orleans..look to Houston, Atlanta, and Dallas..those cities work and that is where your middle and upper middle class live now..if you want them back you'll have to change if not..your looking at Galveston, Louisiana... ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Disaster relief    2. Gulf Coast (U.S.)    3. History - U.S.    4. Hurricane Katrina, 2005    5. Hurricanes    6. Louisiana - Local History    7. Natural Disasters    8. Nature    9. Nature/Ecology    10. Rescue work    11. United States - 21st Century    12. United States - State & Local - South    13. History / United States / State & Local / South (AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, VA, WV)