Cave Diving

About the Book

Through all the ups and downs of life, the author has always been pushed toward cave diving. From childhood to the present time, he explains what has shaped and sharpened him for this activity, which is regarded as very hazardous and engaged. He explains how this nonpaid activity is linked with the other parts of his life. The emphasis is put not only on exploration, which is a very central element of caving and cave diving but also on ethical, social, technical, and scientific considerations. Doing things is presented as more important than having or being.

About the Author

Pierre Boudinet is a French caver and cave diver. He has a deep scientific background including a doctorate and the French “Agrégation” of physics.. He explored, very often alone, several sumps including the long “Source de l'Écoutôt” (more than one mile to fin without propeller). He explored also sumps that can be reached only after engaged vertical caving, including the sumps of the “Gouffre du Paradis.” He distanced himself from mass practice. When he isn't underground, his occupation is to teach physics in a prep class. He makes also pure scientific research, often using computer modeling.