You refer to "his" interview on CNN. I'm not sure which person you were referring to -- Jim Berkland or Simon Winchester. Both are geologists.

In the case of Jim Berkland,his interview came across as grandstanding and self-promotion, IMO.

In the case of Simon Winchester, one could say that he was promoting his books. However, having read several of his books, I don't think that was the case. I think he genuinely believes in this theory -- the butterfly effect - and was interviewed because of popular appeal (several bestsellers). He is spreading the word as he believes it to be.

That is my opinion and my personal observation only.

Barbara