Index Fossils

Norm Smith (74532.66@compuserve.com)
22 Jan 96 09:19:52 EST

I am hoping that there are those on this reflector who are interested in
pursuing notions relating to index fossils and the degree of resolution in the
geologic column somewhat further. Study of this area seems a good "starting
point" in trying to sort out from the literature, that which is an actual
description of nature, from that which results from an acceptance of the
current widely held paradigm.

It would seem beneficial to have a specific example to discuss. Could someone
suggest a specific biostratigraphic zone that would serve as a case study of
the manner in which such zones are delimited and the methods used for
correlation over wide areas. Better yet, perhaps several such examples would
allow people living in different areas to have an example near them. I live
near Morrison CO, so something connected with the Morrison formation would be
handy for me.

For my part, I am not so much interested in arguing in favor of any specific
view of natural history as I am in determining the range of natural history
scenarios that can be reconciled with the geolocic record. It is in this area
of biostratigraphy that I find it particularly difficult to obtain a clear
notion of the actual state of the field data, that I am confident is not
distorted by a zealous acceptance of one or another view of natural history.

Norm Smith
74532,66@compuserve.com