The Legend of Atlantis and the Science of Geology: Atlantis and Catastrophe—Myth or Reality? (Vol. 1) by Joseph O’Donoghue


The Legend of Atlantis and the Science of Geology: Atlantis and Catastrophe—Myth or Reality? (Vol. 1)
Title : The Legend of Atlantis and the Science of Geology: Atlantis and Catastrophe—Myth or Reality? (Vol. 1)
Author :
Rating :
ISBN : -
ISBN-10 : 9798350910278
Language : English
Format Type : Paperback
Number of Pages : 376
Publication : Published June 21, 2024

"Atlantis and Catastrophe, Myth or Reality" is the first volume in a new series about the mystery of Atlantis. The strictly scientific nature of this series is revealed by its title: "The Legend of Atlantis and the Science of Geology." While many are the books that have been written about Atlantis, this volume, and series, differs from most in that the author is a qualified geologist, and here presents a serious scientific treatment of the legend.
The academic establishment, governed as it is by gradualist uniformitarian geology, takes a dismissive view of Atlantis and all such catastrophe legends. In this series, and very much breaking with convention, this author takes an open-minded approach to the Atlantis question, and, for balance, a critical approach to the science of geology.
There is a very simple either/or question to be answered by this series: if modern geology has everything right, then the Atlantis legend is a myth with no basis. On the other hand, if the Atlantis legend can be shown to have validity, then this raises questions about the validity of the theories of orthodox geology---and vice versa.
The science of geology has had quite a varied history, and, as many people know, there was a time when notions of Atlantis, and catastrophes in general, were taken a good deal more seriously than they are today.

This book series, therefore, seeks to redress the inequality in the way Atlantis and geology have been officially treated. A thorough study of the Atlantis legend itself should give a sense of its reliability, or otherwise, while a critical analysis of geology should do the same for the so-called story of our planet.

This first volume focuses on the Atlantis legend from both geological and mythological points of view and includes a survey of classical and modern scholarly opinion of the legend, its language and structure, and its trustworthiness in light of what is known of Plato himself and his times.

Catastrophe and flood legends are prevalent the world over, and a general global survey of such legends is included. Further, in this study, a sampling of legends from the Pacific Northwest of the United States are discussed and analyzed through the new discipline of geomythology.

Because catastrophist geology has long since been rejected, there is no room in academia today for legends such as Atlantis and its catastrophic end. This series of books will show, however, that the natural history of this earth is quite possibly very different to what modern geologists claim it to be, and the fabled island of Atlantis may indeed be lying at the bottom of the Atlantic, right where Plato said it was.


The Legend of Atlantis and the Science of Geology: Atlantis and Catastrophe—Myth or Reality? (Vol. 1) Reviews


  • Book Reviewer

    The legend of the lost city of Atlantis has captivated imaginations for centuries, drawing interest from casual enthusiasts to dedicated scholars. Yet, despite the fascination, no one has definitively proven whether Atlantis truly existed or was merely a figment of myth. Generally accepted as fiction, the legend remains a topic of speculation—except perhaps among the more imaginative fringes of society. However, in The Legend of Atlantis and the Science of Geology, author Joseph O’Donoghue approaches this age-old mystery with the rigor and professionalism of a trained geologist, bringing a fresh, analytical perspective to the debate.

    This book marks the first in a comprehensive series where O’Donoghue explores the Atlantis narrative with a scientific lens. While many dismiss the tale as pure fantasy, O’Donoghue approaches it with a healthy skepticism and a willingness to explore the possibilities. If Atlantis did exist, he argues, geology is the field most likely to uncover evidence. A cataclysmic event powerful enough to sink a city of such legendary proportions would have left traces or clues buried in the Earth's layers that geology might be able to unearth. Even if the city itself has long vanished beneath the ocean, signs of its existence could still be hidden within the Earth's crust, waiting to be discovered. What sets this work apart is its clarity and accessibility. O’Donoghue delivers his findings in a straightforward, engaging manner, ensuring that readers of all backgrounds can follow his arguments without feeling overwhelmed by jargon. His ability to distill complex geological concepts into simple, persuasive language makes the book not only informative but also enjoyable.

    In the thought-provoking exploration of The Legend of Atlantis and the Science of Geology, Volume 1, O’Donoghue masterfully demonstrates that sometimes, truth can indeed be stranger—and more intriguing—than fiction. His conclusions are both compelling and potentially groundbreaking, offering insights that could reshape our understanding of Earth's history. This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys delving into the mysteries of the past with a critical, yet open mind.

  • Adrienne

    This is book #1 of 2 in the series. These books are right up my alley! I presently am enthralled with myth, especially of Ancient Greek and Roman times, and any discussions or analysis and history about these myths and myth in general. Now ADD to that the SCIENCE of GEOLOGY, and you've got this intriguing scientific page turner! I won this book in a goodreads giveaway, introducing me to the author Joseph O'Donoghue, and I'm so glad it did! I look forward to reading book #2!