No surprise, though. If you start any large theory, such as quantum mechanics, plate tectonics, evolution, it generally takes about 40 years for mainstream science to come around. Gaia has been going for only 30 years or so. Life clearly does more than adapt to the Earth. It changes the Earth to its own purposes.
Evolution is a tightly coupled dance, with life and the material environment as partners.
From the dance emerges the entity Gaia. Cover up with a Salon T-shirt this summer. Relief Fund Click here to support international family planning. More great offers in Salon Plus Current Stories Rickey Henderson Say what you will about his attitude, he walks the walk. Billy Bob babbles big-time More deep thoughts from Thornton, Jolie and, uh, Alec Baldwin.