"No, science cannot forecast a particular earthquake. Seismology - that hybrid science where physics, geology, risk analysis converge - has sought to explain how movements in the earth's crust are unleashed for, among others objectives, to know when and where these shocks will occur, but to date there is no reliable method to predict tremors Susan E. Hough presents in this work the main attempts of scientists in various parts of the world — from Italy to China, from Peru to Alaska - in anticipation of earthquakes that could endanger people's lives. Seismologist herself, the author explores myths about predicting tremors — from atypical behavior of animals to the appearance of mysterious lights in the sky, from change in groundwater levels to the emanation of certain gases — and the theories that have been developed to create early warning systems to prevent With California as the main stage, as it is a natural laboratory for the study of earthquakes, this book also shows the debates regarding the responsibility of the experts to communicate to the population the risks, imminent or long-term, and to influence in public policy. So, although today it cannot predict earthquakes, science has a lot to tell us to coexist with them.

"" This book reminds us that many respectable scientists and many crackpots have tried to predict tremors ... and have failed. Predicting the unpredictable tells us what has been tried and abandoned, and why. Milestones in earthquake prediction are dissected thanks to Hough's diligent research. ""
Roger bilham, Nature

"" Hough's book is not at all frustrating, as it offers an illuminating, fair and insightful look at how seismology has operated in an area where an extremely difficult problem and the legitimate demands of the population converge. ""
Cosma Shalizi, American Scientist "