关键词: 地球系统, 全球构造, 环境, 改革高等地质教育, 地球系统, 全球构造, 环境, 改革高等地质教育

Abstract: The paper reviews the history of the earth science, that is, it began from understanding a certain area and a geological process, through a long accumulation of knowledge, than developed a huge system of knowledge. In particular, the paper also discusses three leaps of knowledge on the earth science during the 20th century. From two sides, development of geology and new challenge, the paper discusses inevitability of emergence, present situation and future development of a new and high level comprehensive discipline dealing with material system of the earth. In order to suit development of discipline and new mission, the authors from geological point of view suggest some adjustment measure, such as, enhancing research work to the modern and present geological process, enhancing cross and osmosis with close discipline, reforming teaching methods and adjusting higher geological education and so on.

Key words: the earth system, global tectonics, environment, reforming higher geological education, the earth system, global tectonics, environment, reforming higher geological education