Dodson's article in American Paleontologist

["Ray Stanford" <dinotracker@earthlink.net>]

    It seems to me that discretion would dictate that we refrain from overly
dissecting Dr. Peter Dodson's article in American Paleontologist if that
discussion is based only upon very brief quotes from it presented out of
adequate context -- especially when we are dealing with a topic so seemingly
permeated with emotion.

    Please at least read and ponder Dodson's whole message (article) if you
are to consider taking aim it.  If not, we risk dissecting 'the thoughts of
a straw man' instead of discussing the actual issues he raises.

    IMHO, Peter Dodson is a gentleman, a superb scholar, a fine person and
paleontologist, and an exceptionally wonderful teacher (if I may judge from
some graduate students of his, whom I have met).  If one disagrees with the
position he expresses in the article, fine; but his opinion is worthy of
respectful, patient, thorough, and objective examination.

    I am not asserting that anyone on the list has seriously failed due
respect in discussing the article, but considering the 'thermal coefficient'
of the topic, I hope this message serves to discourage disrespect in the
time just ahead.  When a wise person speaks, some of the wise may disagree,
but they listen and respond with respect.

    Thanks for considering this.
    Ray Stanford