Re: Fw: Dinosaurs and birds

[jrc <jrccea@bellsouth.net>]

----- Original Message ----- 
> I think I understand the "they-can't-run-any-faster" point/analogy quite 
> well. The analogy isn't apt, nor are your assumptions. You assume that an 
> animal that can generate forward thrust directs it exactly 
> forward/parallel to the ground, and further, cannot quickly re-direct that 
> thrust. You also assume that the thrust generated is constant in force, 
> another major flaw of the car analogy. You further assume that for a speed 
> increase from fore-limb assistance to be advantageous, it must occur at 
> full running speed. None of the above assumptions, although necessary for 
> mathematical analysis, are correct in an _evolutionary_ context.

I grew up on a farm too.  Don't miss it much.
I think maybe you're assuming that Mike and I are making assumptions that 
neither of us assume......  :-)