Image for The Great Geological Debate

The Great Geological Debate

The Great Geological Debate refers to the 19th-century discussions among scientists regarding the Earth's age and the processes that shaped its features. Key figures like Charles Lyell, who advocated for gradual geological changes over long periods, clashed with those favoring catastrophic events, such as large-scale floods. This debate was crucial in understanding Earth’s history, formation, and evolution. Ultimately, it helped establish modern geology, emphasizing that both slow processes and sudden events contribute to shaping our planet over millions of years.