For many people, the study of geology is only about looking at the rocks and the study of geography is merely memorizing the state capitals and then forgetting them. While it is useful to remember capitals and interestingly identify rocks, there are other reasons to study geology and geography.
We live in a world where information travels at the speed of light and what happens on the other side of the world (both natural and political). ) It affects us. And we all know the statistics about the scarce knowledge that young people have in relation to geography.
Geology and Geography
The majority of young people in Latin America have many confusions regarding geography. This ignorance has profoundly negative consequences.
Perspective:
having a broader perspective can be very useful and the study of geography encourages us to do this with respect to space. The study of geology reminds us to have a perspective with respect to time. We often think that what happens in our small corner of the world at a certain moment is very important, but the world is much bigger and much longer than the frame in which we normally conceive things. Adopting a wider view of time and space can be useful.
Orientation:
We need to orient ourselves both literally and figuratively in the world in which we live. As Jared Diamond points out in his book Guns, Germs, and Steel, much of our history revolves around the contingencies of geology and geography. We inhabit a world of forces much larger than ourselves and these have a profound effect on our life and well-being. Therefore, a certain understanding of these forces helps us appreciate our history and our future.
Incremental change:
Throughout geological history, profound changes have taken place through the slow and deliberate processes of nature. The simple erosion of wind and water formed the Grand Canyon. What can we learn from this? The power of small steps taken consistently produces great effects. This is abundantly true and nature and in our own lives.
Conclusion
Knowing where you are going is not possible unless you know where you are and where you came from. This is true for history as we all know, but also for the sciences of geology and geography. For that reason, your study should be part of any good education.
