This textbook examines the concept of mantle convection from a historical perspective, with particular emphasis on the origins of the assumptions commonly embedded in mantle-convection models.The motivation is to provide answers to questions enrolled in courses to introduce mantle dynamics , such as, “How can we be sure that this is the case?” or “Where does this idea or concept come from?” This implicates the need for a more detailed explanation of the foundations underlying current mantle-convection models. The organization and scope of this textbook are shaped by the needs and profile of students, aiming to provide a coherent, accessible, and conceptually grounded introduction to mantle convection and mantle dynamics.

Edgardo Cañón-Tapia is a Research Professor in the Earth Sciences Division at CICESE, Ensenada, Mexico. He holds a BSc in Physics from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and MSc and PhD degrees in Geology and Geophysics from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa. His research focuses on volcanology, paleomagnetism, rock magnetism, and mantle and plate dynamics, with extensive field experience in Mexico, the Americas, Europe, and Asia. Dr. Cañón-Tapia has published more than 70 peer reviewed scientific papers and has edited several influential volumes in volcanology and geophysics. His teaching emphasizes conceptual understanding of Earth processes, particularly mantle dynamics and volcanism, at the graduate level.