Civilization and Climate

Desert, Further Studies in Natural Appearances by John Charles van Dyke. The Desert by John Charles Van Dyke, published in 1901, is a lush, poetic description of the natural beauty of the American Southwest. "What land can equal the desert with its wide plains, its grim mountains, and its expanding canopy of sky!" Van Dyke, a cultivated art historian, saw "sublimity" in the desert's "lonely desola...

Philosophy and Civilization in the Middle Ages by Maurice de Wulf. The purpose of the study as here presented is to approach the Middle Ages from a new point of view, by showing how the thought of the period, metaphysics included, is intimately connected with the whole round of Western civilization to which it belongs. My work represents simply an attempt to open the way; it makes no pretense to e...

History of Egypt by Frederick C. H. Wendel. The history of Egypt from the earliest times to the conquest by Alexander the Great, covering the development of Egyptian civilization: science, religion, art, language and literature. This book is written for the interested layperson, requiring no prior knowledge of Egypt, and in approachable everyday language. Featured on Civilization and Climate. Publ...

At the Mountains of Madness, Version 2 by H. P. Lovecraft. A scientific expedition to Antartica discovers the ruins of a civilization millions of years old, built by the Elder Things, beings who came to Earth shortly after the formation of the Moon. But are the ancient Elder Things extinct, or do they still roam the Earth? A classic tale of horror by H.P. Lovecraft that first appeared in Astoundin...

Ancient Civilizations of Mexico and Central America by Herbert Spinden. The ancient cultures of Mesoamerica developed art, stone cities, and sciences (especially astronomy and mathematics), to a degree that surpasses anything else existing in the New World. These developments may even match or overtake some developments made by the major civilizations of Europe or Asia. The author actually compare...

Underground Man by Gabriel Tarde. This post-apocalyptic novella tells the story of the downfall of civilisation and mankind following a solar cataclysm in the late 20th century. To survive, the remnants of humanity had to build a new civilization underground in the complete absence of all species except mankind, choosing to base it only on love and beauty, the fine arts and intellectual pursuits....

Mad Planet by Murray Leinster. It is 30,000 years following dramatically changed climate conditions on earth which had let massive amounts of carbon dioxide belch from the interior of the planet into the atmosphere. Over the millenia this would have quite devastating effects on life as it had once been known. Much of the human and animal population would not survive the climate change, and indeed...

Revolutions of Civilization by William Matthew Flinders Petrie. British archaeologist & Egyptologist, Flinders Petrie, discusses the history of civilization in Egypt, Greece, Rome & medieval Europe & correlates contemporary events in different countries. A measure of the quality of civilisation is proposed by a comparison of artisan skill and effort judged in art, sculpture, and archit...

U. S. Energy Sector Vulnerabilities to Climate Change and Extreme Weather by United States Department of Energy. This report—part of the Obama Administration’s efforts to support national climate change adaptation planning through the Interagency Climate Change Adaptation Task Force and Strategic Sustainability Planning process and to advance the U.S. Department of Energy’s goal of promoting energ...

Climatic Changes. Their Nature and Causes by Ellsworth Huntington. This episode includes AI-generated content.

Understanding Climatic Change by US Committee for the Global Atmospheric Research Program. This episode includes AI-generated content.

World-Power and Evolution by Ellsworth Huntington. This episode includes AI-generated content.

"Underground Man-Gabriel Tarde" delves into the complex psyche of its protagonist, exploring themes of isolation, societal critique, and the struggle for identity. This thought-provoking narrative invites listeners to reflect on the nature of human connection and the often tumultuous relationship between individuals and society. Its exploration of these enduring themes resonates deeply in today's...

"Earth and Sun: An Hypothesis of Weather and Sunspots" by Ellsworth Huntington explores the intricate relationship between solar activity and weather patterns, proposing that sunspots play a crucial role in influencing climate. This thought-provoking work delves into the natural forces that shape our environment, offering insights that remain relevant as we grapple with the impacts of climate chan...

"Duchess of Langeais" by Honoré de Balzac is a captivating exploration of love, desire, and the complexities of human relationships set against the backdrop of 19th-century France. This novel delves into the intricate dynamics between its characters, illustrating the tension between social status and personal longing. Its themes of ambition and the pursuit of happiness remain relevant today, invit...

"Amateur Emigrant" by Robert Louis Stevenson is a compelling exploration of the author's journey as he navigates the challenges and experiences of emigration. Through his keen observations and reflections, Stevenson captures the essence of what it means to seek new horizons and the struggles that accompany such a transformative journey. This work resonates with contemporary audiences as it echoes...

"Decoration of Houses" by Ogden Codman, Jr. and Edith Wharton is a seminal work that explores the principles of interior design and architecture, emphasizing the importance of aesthetics and functionality in creating harmonious living spaces. This timeless guide offers insights into the art of decoration, advocating for a thoughtful approach that balances beauty with practicality. As we navigate a...

"Home Acre" by Edward P. Roe is a captivating exploration of rural life and the relationship between humanity and nature. This timeless narrative delves into the joys and challenges of cultivating a homestead, reflecting on the profound connection we share with the land. Its themes of self-sufficiency, environmental stewardship, and the simple pleasures of life resonate strongly today, encouraging...

The "Annual Report of the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, December 1837" provides a detailed overview of the policies and practices regarding Native American affairs during a pivotal time in U.S. history. This report sheds light on the government's approach to Indian affairs, reflecting the complexities of civilization and the challenges faced by Indigenous communities. Listening to this report to...

The "Airplane Flying Handbook FAA-H-8083-3A" is an essential resource published by the Federal Aviation Administration, providing comprehensive guidance on the principles and techniques of flying airplanes. This handbook serves as a foundational text for pilots, detailing critical information about aircraft operation, flight maneuvers, and safety protocols. Its enduring relevance lies in its thoro...

"History of Minnesota and Tales of the Frontier, Part 1" by Charles E. Flandrau delves into the rich narrative of Minnesota's past and the rugged experiences of frontier life. This audiobook captures the spirit of exploration and the challenges faced by early settlers, providing listeners with a vivid portrayal of a pivotal time in American history. The themes of resilience, adventure, and the que...

"Wild Duck" by Henrik Ibsen explores the intricate dynamics of truth, illusion, and the human condition through the lens of a seemingly idyllic family life that is disrupted by the arrival of a new character. The play delves into themes of self-deception and the often painful pursuit of reality, raising questions about the nature of happiness and the sacrifices we make to maintain our illusions. I...

"History of New Brunswick" by Peter Fisher offers a compelling exploration of the province's past, delving into its rich cultural heritage and significant events that have shaped its identity. This audiobook captures the essence of New Brunswick's evolution, highlighting the interplay between its diverse communities and the natural environment. As listeners immerse themselves in this narrative, th...

"Selected Poems-Siegfried Sassoon" presents a powerful collection of the poet's most evocative works, capturing the profound experiences and emotions that arise from war and its aftermath. Sassoon's poignant reflections on courage, loss, and the human condition resonate deeply, inviting listeners to explore the complexities of life and the impact of conflict. The themes of resilience and the searc...

"Earth and Sun: An Hypothesis of Weather and Sunspots" by Ellsworth Huntington delves into the intricate relationship between solar activity and climatic conditions on Earth. Huntington presents a compelling argument that sunspots, which are temporary phenomena on the sun's surface, play a significant role in influencing weather patterns and, by extension, the development of civilizations. This ex...