Which scientist is known for developing the theory of catastrophism?

The scientist known for developing the theory of catastrophism is Georges Cuvier. Cuvier proposed that the Earth's geological features and the fossil record were shaped by a series of sudden, short-lived, and violent events, such as natural disasters, which he termed "catastrophes." This idea contrasted with the concept of uniformitarianism, which suggests that the Earth's processes are gradual and consistent over time.

Cuvier’s work laid the foundation for paleontology and significantly influenced the study of extinction, as he provided evidence through fossils that certain species had disappeared from the Earth. His emphasis on sudden changes in the Earth's history helped to develop a scientific framework for understanding how species could suddenly go extinct due to catastrophic events, rather than through gradual evolution over time.

Other scientists mentioned have made significant contributions to geology and biology but did not specifically develop the theory of catastrophism. Charles Lyell is associated with uniformitarianism, advocating for gradual geological changes over long periods. James Hutton is often considered the father of modern geology but is also known for ideas related to gradualism, which contrast with Cuvier’s catastrophism. Jean-Baptiste Lamarck is recognized for his early theories of evolution, particularly the idea of inheritance of acquired characteristics, which