Geology as an integrated science

Geology is essentially an integrated science, as it encompasses physics, chemistry, and biology. Geology studies rocks, minerals, fossils, landscapes, and the long-term processes that have shaped the Earth. To understand these complex systems, geologists must employ a range of methods and combined approaches that integrate field observations, laboratory analyses, models, and comparisons with similar systems. In the philosophy of science, geology offers a compelling example of how complex natural systems can only be understood through interdisciplinary frameworks and the integration of different epistemic tools. As a result, geology is not just a natural science but a synthetic discipline that combines scales, methods, and perspectives to explain the evolution of the Earth. Although geology is not yet fully recognized within the philosophy of science, it is a clear example of how complex natural phenomena can only be understood through interdisciplinary thinking and the integration of different scientific perspectives.