In: Psychology
If neither "Gaia Theory" nor "Earth System Theory" is a good name for communicating with the non-scientific community, then what IS a good name/ theory we can use?
Gaia theory has been seen to be generating a lot of curiosity within the community and earth system theory has been seen to be describing how changes occur in the solid earth and has been as a result of interactions that take place among the various spheres of the earth, the biosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere as well as lithosphere. Gaia theory states that there is a complex synergistic as well as self regulating relationship formed between the inorganic surroundings as well as the living organisms of the earth. As a result of this synergy, there is maintenance and perpetuation of life like conditions on the planet.
The gaia hypothesis has been seen to be associating more with the non scientific community to generate some empathy. Though, the self regulating system of the earth can also be explained via the manner in which the different spheres of the earth interact and maintain a balanced system, there are a number of assumptions that underline these systems.
Hence, in my opinion, use of the name Gaia hypothesis, will pave a new wave for understanding. It will help erase the previous assumptions and introduce a new system, that would be helping people (non scientific ) to understand earth's functioning in a better manner.