Was Oldfield Thomas criticized for his classification methods?
While my aim was always precision, the dynamic nature of science means that classifications are subject to revision. Some may have found my methods overly reliant on morphological distinctions. As more sophisticated tools, like genetic analysis, became available, new perspectives emerged. However, at the time, the detailed anatomical comparison and geographical data were the most robust tools at our disposal for discerning species boundaries. My intention was to create a clear and stable framework for understanding the mammalian world as it was then known.
Ask Michael Roger Oldfield Thomas the follow-up →