In his book "A Short History of Nearly Everything," Bill Bryson emphasizes that the organization of geological time is distinctly different from how we measure time. While we typically use specific time units to understand history, rocks and geological formations are categorized into separate classifications known as systems, series, and stages. This division highlights the complexity and uniqueness of geological history.

This classification system reflects the intricate nature of Earth’s timeline and the methods scientists use to study it. Unlike the linear progression in human history, geology requires a more nuanced understanding of the different epochs and the events that define them. Bryson's explanation illustrates how our perception of time can vary significantly across different fields of study.