Phylogenetic Inference vs. Classification

[Norm MacLeod <nm@xxxxxxxxx>]

It just occurred to me why Stefan and I seem to be talking past one
another.  By saying "birds are dinosaurs" I'm making a statement
about their phylogenetic ancestry whereas I think Stefan is
objecting to birds being classified as dinosaurs.  I see a distinction
between these two statements.  In fact, I don't insist by any means
that birds be classified as dinosaurs (though I must admit that if I were
making up a classification I would probably do so).  Still I can understand
and, in many cases, have sympathy for the recognition of non-monophyletic
groups in certain instances.  It is possible to be a cladist without
advocating the overthrow of the entire nomenclatural system.  Nevertheless,
I think my argument about birds belonging to the dinosaur lineage and that
lineage having survived to this day (a phylogenetic argument) still stands.
At least until Stefan's next posting.

Norm MacLeod