An Oasis of Order was written by Timothy P. Cross and first published in book form in 1995.

Timothy P. Cross was formerly director of electronic programs and associate director of communications in the Columbia College Office of Alumni Affairs and Development. A graduate of Swarthmore College, Cross earned his master's degree and doctorate in European history from Columbia' Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. He first encountered Columbia's Core Curriculum as a graduate student preceptor in the "Introduction to Contemporary Civilization" course, which he has taught frequently since 1990.