The Huttonian Theory

The Huttonian Theory, proposed by geologist James Hutton, suggests that Earth's landscapes are shaped over immense periods through natural processes like erosion, sedimentation, and volcanic activity. He believed these processes are ongoing and operate uniformly over time—a concept called uniformitarianism—meaning the Earth's features result from gradual changes rather than sudden catastrophes. This idea challenged earlier beliefs in rapid, supernatural events shaping the Earth. Hutton's theory laid the foundation for modern geology, emphasizing that Earth's history is best understood by studying the continuous, observable processes that modify its surface over deep time.