Fact: Our knowledge of volcanoes has grown over a long and circuitous path through history, moving from mythological representation to todays's theoretical, computer-generated models. Knowledge has been refined as more complex question have been addressed, and the means of investiagtion has broadened as well: at one time scholars studied only one type of rock, one volcano or volcanic region, one particular dynamic, or one specific eruption.
Fact 2: Today, there is a growing trend toward a global, many sided approach to the study of volcanoes. Biologists, archaeologists, and climatologists engage in fruitful dialogue with volcanologists. Knowledge becomes richer and shows us that volcanic eruptions, whether mild or cataclysmic, can have major repercussions on hunman life. That, in fact, is the primary advnace that has come about in the evoulution of knowledge: earth is a living planet, and its life closely determines our own.
Fact 3: People have always tried to answer questions raised by the terrifying uncontrollable natural force of volcanoes. Some have found these answer in divine or demonic manifestations. Others, driven by passionate curiosity, have visited the craters in an attempt to understand how the earth functions. Empedocles was famous for this all consuming inerest led him to build his home near the volcano.
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