With the maturing of the theories of plate tectonics, mantle convection, and geophysical fluid dynamics, the availability of unprecedented computing power, and the proliferation of space-based observational platforms, the study of Earth systems has come a long way in the past several decades. The reviews in the 16 June 2000 Special Issue of Science focus on the most recent thinking on Earth dynamics. To provide an additional, longer-term perspective on how that thinking has developed, we've gathered together a sampling of articles from previous issues of Science that have helped to shape the debate over the past quarter century.

PDF versions of articles before October 1995 (vol. 270) are available to all users as supplemental data. Access to full text and PDF files of more recent material requires a subscription or site pass to Science Online. (Read about subscription options.)

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• The Earth's Core
• The Mantle and Plate Tectonics
• El Niño and Ocean-Atmosphere Modeling
• The Upper Atmosphere