Historians of geology in the field: a half-century of INHIGEO excursions

Abstract

AbstractWhen INHIGEO was born at Yerevan in 1967, it was agreed that field excursions would be an integral part of its activities. Although the bylaw that was adopted to this effect has since lapsed, the practice of combining meetings and excursions has continued. Meeting venues and the excursions associated with them are suggested by members in the host country and their organization is very much a local responsibility. Although the meetings commonly have a theme specific to them, the excursions may be more general depending on what can be achieved in the general vicinity of the venue and the interests and specializations of those running them. While it is accepted practice to visit geologically important sites, there is also a recognition that participants often appreciate the inclusion of localities or monuments of historical and cultural interest. This reflects the professional breadth of INHIGEO's membership (whose main disciplines span the geosciences as well as the history of science, in addition to some other fields) and also acknowledges the general understanding that geology, like every science, develops within the cultural milieus where it is practised. Excursions organized with specifically historical objectives respond to a variety of ideas about the goals of historical understanding, ranging along a scientific–historical spectrum. Excursions may be short, lasting from a few hours to a half or even a full day (these are frequently held during the course of the meeting); longer excursions may last up to a week or even more and are almost always scheduled either prior to or after the close of the meeting sessions. Whatever their duration, INHIGEO excursions have always proved to be educational and enlightening and are often among the most memorable of a meeting's experiences.