The phrase 'the fossil record' sounds impressive and authoritative. As used by some persons it becomes, as intended, intimidating, taking on the aura of esoteric truth as expounded by an elite class of specialists. But what is it, really, this fossil record? Only data in search of interpretation. All claims to the contrary that I know, and I know of several, are so much superstition.

Summary

This quote challenges the perceived infallibility and exclusive nature of the concept of the fossil record. It suggests that the term itself carries a weighty façade, creating a sense of intimidation and portraying it as a sacred truth held only by a select few specialists. Instead, the quote argues that the fossil record is simply a collection of data that requires interpretation. It dismisses any claims of absolute certainty as mere superstition, implying that interpretations of the fossil record are subjective and should not be treated as unquestionable dogma.

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