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Introduction to Paleontology is an educational series presented by The Great Courses that aims to introduce viewers to the science of paleontology, the study of prehistoric life through fossils. The course is led by Dr. Stuart Sutherland, an experienced paleontologist who has worked in the field for more than 30 years.
The series comprises 24 lectures, each lasting around 30 minutes, and covers a range of topics related to the history of life on Earth. The course seeks to explain how different species evolved, adapted to new environments, and ultimately went extinct. It also explores the various methods that paleontologists use to study fossils, including comparative anatomy and radiometric dating.
The course begins with an introduction to paleontology, identifying the various types of fossils and explaining how they form over time. Dr. Sutherland then jumps into the history of life on Earth, starting with the earliest known fossils and progressing through the major geological time periods. Along the way, he discusses the different types of organisms that lived during each era, including the first simple bacteria, ancient plants, and the earliest known animals.
Dr. Sutherland also spends a significant amount of time discussing the evolution of dinosaurs and their ultimate extinction, as well as the proliferation of mammals in the aftermath of the dinosaurs' demise. He covers a variety of different dinosaur species and explores the various theories surrounding why these creatures disappeared from the planet.
Throughout the course, Dr. Sutherland emphasizes the importance of studying fossils and the insights they provide into the history of life on Earth. He also highlights the many advances in technology that have made it possible to discover and study these fossils in greater detail. For example, he explains how CT scans and other imaging technologies can be used to create 3D models of fossils, providing scientists with new insights into the anatomy and behavior of prehistoric animals.
Overall, Introduction to Paleontology is a fascinating and engaging course that offers viewers a comprehensive introduction to the science of paleontology. Dr. Sutherland's enthusiasm and expertise shine through in each lecture, making the material both informative and enjoyable to watch. Whether you're a casual fan of dinosaurs or a budding paleontologist, this course has something to offer anyone with an interest in the history of life on Earth.
Introduction to Paleontology is a series that ran for 1 seasons (24 episodes) between November 11, 2016 and on The Great Courses Signature Collection
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Genres
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CastStuart Sutherland
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Channel
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Premiere DateNovember 11, 2016
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