Coyote writes:
Here is a link to a long and very detailed discussion of the Haeckel issue. It is far too long to duplicate here.
In the case of Haeckel, though, I have to begin by admitting that Wells has got the core of the story right. Haeckel was wrong. His theory was invalid, some of his drawings were faked, and he willfully over-interpreted the data to prop up a false thesis. Furthermore, he was influential, both in the sciences and the popular press; his theory still gets echoed in the latter today. Wells is also correct in criticizing textbook authors for perpetuating Haeckel's infamous diagram without commenting on its inaccuracies or the way it was misused to support a falsified theory.
Wells and Haeckel's Embryos
This is the second paragraph of PZ's Review.
He says:
Haeckel was wrong.
His theory was invalid.
Some of his drawings were faked.
He willfully over-interpreted the date, To prop up a,
False thesis.
He was influential, in sciences and press.
His theory still gets echoed in the press today. (2003)
PZ goes on to say:
Wells was correct in criticizing textbook authors for perpetuating Haeckel's infamous diagram without commenting on its inaccuracy.
Or how it was misused to support a falsified theory.
Other comments by PZ.
There is no doubt that his efforts to popularize the theory were important in giving evolution credibility in the scientific establishment, and to laymen as well.
Furthermore, Haeckel's theory was rotten at the core.
Unfortunately, it was also completely wrong.
So what is your point in referring to this article?
Coyote writes:
Hmmmmm. Sounds like another example of creationist veracity here as well.
The motives of that creationist was to point out the truth.
PZ Myers pointed out the truth that Haeckel was very influential in the scientific community giving credibility to evolution by his efforts.
The only problem was that the proclamations of Haeckel was rotten to the core and backed up by faked drawings according to PZ.
God Bless,
"John 5:39 (KJS) Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me."