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The Future of Analytical Paleobiology

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  17 July 2017

David M. Raup
David M. Raup*
Affiliation:
Department of the Geophysical Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637
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Extract

In the past few decades, we have come a long way in making paleobiology more rigorous. We have accumulated an impressive array of quantitative techniques – statistical and otherwise – and these are in use with the full range of paleobiological problems. Also striking is the way the added rigor of our science has spilled over into non-quantitative judgments and interpretations. No longer is the Just-So Story allowed to stand unchallenged. Rather, we respond to these bald assertions and ad hoc theories with: “Can you prove it?” or “Can this be tested?”

Type
Research Article
Information
Short Courses in Paleontology , Volume 4: Analytical Paleobiology , 1991 , pp. 207 - 216
Copyright
Copyright © 1991 Paleontological Society 

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