Geology and ancient history both are soothing to me

[Marthe48]

There are geology videos on YouTube. I like Shawn Willsey and Myron Cook. They discuss formations and how they might have been created over millions of years. The videos I enjoy the most are the ones that cover the gradual changes in the landscapes.

I've been listening to the Fortress of Lugh, learning about early human migration, mainly across Europe and Asia, and early formation of cultures. The information is based on mythology, DNA, historical records if there are any.

I like both subjects, because they are past, and while some of the dynamics might still affect our modern life, it is all removed a step or two.

[mwf]

1. The long view

I agree with you

These perspectives take us out of the day-to-day disasters we are surrounded with. I live in an area where t the dominant geological formations are built of limestone. When I look closely at a rock, I see that it is composed of the shells of microscopic organisms. I think of what their life must have been like. Even now the modern versions of those small creatures are out there, being endangered by us but going on with their lives as best they can.

[JustABozoOnThisBus]

2. I'm fascinated by two disastrous events. 65 million years ago, ...

... an asteroid crashed near the Yucatan peninsula, resulting in the extinction of dinosaurs.

Then, ten years ago, Trump was elected.

[Marthe48]

5. I didn't mean for this post to be about politics

The lounge is a big part of my bubble. If I post here, the last thing I want a reminder of that thing.

I am getting better from a double whammy of illness. One of my close in-laws won't see the end of this year.

Thank you for understanding.

[eppur_se_muova]

3. Old-fashioned book rec !

The book starts out (IIRC) with an imagined journey by air, viewing the landforms of N. America and explaining what created them. Lots of details of glacial remnants I hadn't known about before.

I wouldn't take the title too seriously; it's more like a tour with a chatty, knowledgable friend -- one who travels with a chalkboard.

[Marthe48]

4. I will keep it in mind

Thanks!

[Zorro]

6. Check out John Romer's youtube videos

He's an Egyptologist but doesn't restrict his archeological programs to only that culture. His Testament series is a discussion of the origins of the books of the Bible, for instance.

The shows are analog recordings so they're not as crisp as digital programs, but the information he conveys is both revealing and entertaining.

[Marthe48]

7. Thanks!

I'll check his recordings out. I'm watching a video about Iceland right now, after hours of Western (U.S.A.) geology. I'll be ready for a change of pace tomorrow. Amazing planet.