William Borlase, Uniformitarianism and the Ice Age in Cornwall | With Professor James Scourse

For natural scientists working in Cornwall, Borlase is where it all started. His descriptions and observations are hugely valuable and his interpretations are well ahead of their time. James’ talk will focus on his observations on the geology at Porth Nanven (Cot Valley). He will explain why Borlase was years ahead of the movers and shakers in geology at the time in interpreting the sediments, in terms of processes operating now (the actualistic principle that underlies Uniformitarianism) rather than resorting to Biblical explanations.

He will then explain our current understanding of these and associated sediments and how we can interpret them to paint a picture of how Cornwall has evolved over the last 120,000 years, latterly coinciding with archaeology and cultural evolution.

Tickets are allocated by a ballot system. Please email enquiries@morrablibrary.org.uk or call 01736 364474 to be entered into the ballot for a ticket. The ballot closes on Monday 8th May.

Entry is £5 by donation to help raise funds for Morrab Library. Refreshments will be provided after the talk.