Geologic time scales in modern books: a failure of standardization?

An examination of 21 books published internationally between 2008 and 2010 indicates that more than a half of authors present geologic time scales different from the “standard” recommended by the International Commission on Stratigraphy. This occurred within both academic and popular books, as well as, textbooks. By this criterion chronostratigraphical standardization remains to be achieved. The noted differences include use of outdated chronostratigraphical units, unusual construction of scales, divergent absolute ages, misspellings, and even alternative colour palettes. The authors may prefer different geologic time scales because of deficiencies in distribution of standards among the international geological community and also rapid changes in standards themselves. Books have a significant impact on specialists, especially the beginners, and, thus, an inadequate appreciation of the chronostratigraphical standard may have far-reaching consequences.