I would like to see a good discussion of fossilization processes.
Are all, or almost all, fossils considered (by mainstream, evolution-believing paleontologists) to be the result of mini-catastrophes? Or, do most paleontologists believe that fossils are the result of animals dying in their environment and being slowly covered up?
I've read a few non-creationists' books on the subject (mostly geared for young people or high-school-aged children, though). These usually indicate that a creature dies in it's environment and is then slowly covered up over time -- lots of time. Over billions of years, of course, we wind up with layers and layers of fossils.
Is this the opinion of actual paleontologists?
I, of course, believe the Flood provides the explanation. However, I do not wish my thread to be plagued with questions about whether or not the Flood is possible. Instead, I would like for attention to be focussed on the process of fossilization itself.
I actually don't expect the discussion to prove YEC assertions, as OEEs (old-earth evolutionists), even if the evidence was conclusive that EVERY fossil was of catastrophic origin, could argue countless mini-catastrophes have occurred over billions of years...or whatever.
What I did want to see is whether people at this board tend to think fossilization is better explained by catastrophic events or by slow, normal processes...and their reasons for believing as they do.
I would especially like to hear from the geologists like roxrkool, edge, JonF, etc. and -- if there are any at this board -- actual paleontologists.
But everybody of all backgrounds would be welcome to throw in their 2 cents, too...in accordance with the EVC rules, of course...because I am also curious to see what non-geologists believe about the subject.
--Jason
(AbE: suggested forum is Geology and the Great Flood)
This message has been edited by TheLiteralist, 07-26-2005 12:19 AM
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