This is a learning (and sharing) project dedicated to dissecting, examining, and confronting the deception dependent Republican assault on climate science and rational constructive debate ~ I invite good-faith discussion.
Past couple years I've noticed and watched a number of Jackson Wheat's videos and have consistently been impressed. Now it turns out that he's provided the best introduction to the Cambrian Period for my purposes.
He overcame my preference for highlighting genuine scientists in this series because he does such a nice job of confronting the ID challenge up front. I didn't find much bio except that he looks to be a surprisingly young guy. The man holds a lot of promise, I wish him well. He also shows us what descriptions should look like, loaded with reference to sources. Below the fold I share a series of key screen shots, followed by Wheat's detailed list of sources with links.
If I had more time, I'd love to do a little more commentary on his content since the two videos certainly have plenty worth discussing, but other matters are crowding me and I need to keep this going. He does toss in a short loud introduction loop, but after that it's smooth sailing as Jackson succinctly summarizes the Cambrian "Explosion" - enjoy.
Whereas Wayne Ranney’s audience tends to be people partaking in geological classes and tours, he acts as the perfect host in trying to validate everyones right to their personally held beliefs, while gently reminding them that geology does not traffic in belief systems but rather observation and data. See, he understands that he might have only this one precious moment to fill them with a sense of awe about the transformational nature of geologic thought. So, the learning is slipped in tactfully and danced around when necessary.
In contrast to that, the impression I get from having watched most all of Professor Nick Zentner’s many videos is that if you attend one of Zentner’s classes or lectures you’d better take it seriously and pay attention if you want to keep up, oh, turn off that phone!
He displays total command of his topic and the audience. On rare occasions we see him use his velvet hammer against some audience offender, it's incisive, and he doesn't miss a beat as he continues his talk. A beautiful thing to watch. I’d love to take a class devoted to studying Nick Zentner’s presentation style and structure. He makes it look so easy, as he conveys so much.
My one lament is that he’s in Washington state. I’m longing for someone like him to start giving recorded talks and short videos of the Colorado Plateau area. At least, I’ve traveled through Washington occasionally, so I can relate to his lessons and the landscapes from personal memory.
To be clear, Nick is a fun guy. I hope so, since I can’t resist introducing him with this:
Geology Video Blooper - Columnar Basalt - Nick Zentner
