Gaia Hypothesis

Ecology & Ecosystems 1972

Discoverers: James Lovelock, Lynn Margulis

Overview

The hypothesis that Earth's biosphere acts as a self-regulating system maintaining conditions suitable for life through feedback loops involving organisms and their environment.

Significance

Stimulated Earth system science and provided a framework for understanding biosphere-atmosphere-ocean interactions at a planetary scale.

Methodology

Atmospheric chemistry analysis showing that Earth's atmosphere is far from chemical equilibrium, maintained by biological processes.

Impact