A Guide to the End of the World

An authoritative scientific consideration of 'everything you never wanted to know' by the Professor of Geohazards and Director of the Benfield Greig Hazard Research Centre at University College London. The book focuses on the many potential catastrophes likely to overtake us. It begins with a short history of the Earth before moving on to the implications of global warming and the possibility a new ice age as well as dangers inherent in a disruption of the Gulf Stream. Then he considers the three main dangers on earth itself - super-eruptions, giant tsunamis and huge earthquakes - such as the Tokyo one in 1923, which is expected to recur - before considering the threat from space from asteroid and comet impacts. Each chapter closes with a list of 'facts to fret over'. Well written, highly informative and deeply worrying - the book should be sent in large quantities to key members of the US administration.