quote: "Is a theory that rejects the idea that catastrophic forces were responsible for the current conditions on the Earth. The theory suggested instead, that continuing uniformity of existing processes were responsible for the present and past conditions of this planet."
I would prefer that uniformitarianism be referred to as a "fundamental principle".
At the time of the birth of the uniformitarianism concept, the viewpoints were strongly polarized between catastrophism and "strict" uniformitarianism. Since then, the concept has become less strict, incorporating the recognition that unusual and extreme events do sometimes happen.
Professor, geology, Whatsamatta U Evolution - Changes in the environment, caused by the interactions of the components of the environment. "Do not meddle in the affairs of cats, for they are subtle and will piss on your computer." - Bruce Graham