41 | Marcia Bjornerud | Fathoming Deep Time: Belonging Within the Slow Story of Earth
“Fathoming deep time is arguably geology’s single greatest contribution to humanity.”
Audio version:
A video version is available below.
Marcia offers a wondrous window into deep time—a perspective that expands our sense of belonging within Earth’s long, layered story. As a geologist, she helps us see beyond the narrow bandwidth of the present into the slow, enduring processes that shape Life on our precious planet.
We explore how timefulness—attuning to Earth’s vast cycles and rhythms—offers perspective, responsibility, and even solace. Marcia reflects on the cultural denial of time, or chronophobia, and invites us to place ourselves more honestly as part of Earth’s ancient presence.
From the microbial worlds of the Proterozoic to the super-slow cycles of water that reach into Earth’s interior, Marcia helps us remember the unseen and essential patterns that sustain Life. We also touch on the Gaia Hypothesis, the illusion of space colonization, and the humble messiness of real science.
At its heart, this conversation is an invitation to live with reverence, humility, and awareness of deep time—and the deep future to come.
Connect with WHR:
WHR Instagram
Email - whr.link@gmail.com
