paleonet Decline of Paleontology (suggestions)

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Hi everybody,

The stream of discussions regarding the Berlin issue has ceased significantly on both vrtpaleo and paleonet lists.  I'm hoping that this indicates that everybody is busy putting a letter together on behalf of the Palaeontological Institute of the Museum für Naturkunde (as I did it this afternoon).

Although it may be difficult, I like John Huss' suggestion, which just came in through paleonet, if possible:
>>> hus2@midway.uchicago.edu 05/17/02 05:01PM >>>
>>>I am not sure of myself on this point, but might not letters to the
authorities be more effective were they from scientists other than
paleontologists?  Are there any systematists/biogeographers/molecular
biologists and members of other allied fields willing to take up the
cause?  I should think that letters from such people might have
greater impact.

Also, in my opinion, another good idea made by <Euphractus@aol.com> (sorry, I haven't gotten your "real" identity yet...) through vrtpaleo list should not be ignored:
>>> Euphractus@aol.com 05/16/02 11:04AM >>>
>>>I would recommend that SVP as an organization send an official letter stating our position. Although from letters are certainly better than doing nothing, there very ease causes them to be taken less seriously then individually-written letters. I think an official SVP letter that provides well-reasoned arguments would carry at least as much weight as a single form letter copied and sent in by every member.

In fact, I recommend as many professional organizations worldwide (regardless of whether or not paleontological) to consider doing this.  Through vrtpaleo and paleonet, it would be nice if we can hear from any professional organizations that are considering to write a letter of support so that we can get some sense to how much support we are actually getting (and yes, I do understand that most such officials are working as volunteers, so let me say "thank you" in advance).

Kenshu
________________________________
Kenshu Shimada, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Environmental Science Program
   and Department of Biological Sciences
DePaul University
2325 N. Clifton Avenue
Chicago, IL 60614, USA
        AND
Research Associate
Sternberg Museum of Natural History
Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS 67601, USA