Description
Isaac Asimov (1920-92) Signed "How Did We Find Out about Earthquakes" Typescript, “Isaac Asimov", 8.5 x 11, 2 pgs., large signature in blue ballpoint, by the American writer and professor of biochemistry at Boston University. He was known for his works of science fiction and popular science. Asimov was a prolific writer who wrote or edited more than 500 books. The typescript is excerpted from Asimov's 1978, non-fiction, science book that explains ancient beliefs about earthquakes and traces the history of our study of them. It explores what is scientifically known about these tremors and the possibility of their prevention. In part: "...Every once in a while in some part of the world or another the ground suddenly rumbles and shakes. Cracks appear in the ground...Sometimes an earthquake may take place under the ocean. The water shakes above it, and a long wave is produced. That wave travels toward land...called a tsunami, which means 'harbor wave'...In ancient times people thought earthquakes might be the result of the anger of some god. After all, what else could be strong enough to shake the ground? The Greeks thought Poseidon...the god of the sea, was the god of earthquakes...Some people thought it was a fire god who was responsible...The first person we know of who tried to think up a cause for earthquakes that did not involve gods was a Greek philosopher, Aristotle...." In fine condition, with a paper clip impression to the top of each page.
$325 #12159
