This volume discusses the mineral resources upon which modern civiliza- tion is built. Take away these minerals and humanity will rapidly return to the stone age, with its greatest concern the depletion of flint (also a mineral). It would, of course, result in about a 99% reduction in population. In other words, approximately 99% of the worlds' population is dependent on minerals for its existence. That is a pretty strong statement, but how many have even seen a travois? Without minerals, pack animals, rafts, rowboats, sail boats, sledges, and the backs of man would be the only forms of...

Mankind lives, works, and plays on the earth's surface. The majority of such human activities change in some manner the geological materials and processes of our planet. It is the basis of this book that an understanding of this relationship is significant. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that natural processes and events can in turn greatly affect society. Erosion devastates farms and grazing lands. The spectacular hazards of earthquakes, volcanoes, floods, and landslides can lead to disastrous loss of life and property. Thus, one theme in this book is to provide perspective on the duality...