In Contested Bones, Rupe and Sanford have thoroughly investigated, from the primary sources, the fossil evidence for human evolution. The most prominent fossil "ape-men" are carefully examined in separate chapters. Rupe and Sanford show that the bones really are contested, even within the field of paleoanthropology. The unreliability of the various dating methods and their associated problems are described in a single illuminating chapter. In the chapter on genetics the authors (well qualified in the field) succinctly describe the barriers to ape-to-man evolution. Written in a style that non-scientists can understand but fully documented for the expert reader, Contested Bones is a brilliant analysis that no serious-minded person should ignore. The origin of man has profound implications for how we view ourselves, live our lives, and relate to others. I highly, highly recommend this book.
Terry Mortenson, PhDHistory of Geology
Human evolution is the crux of evolutionary theory. Finally, a book is out that addresses in depth the most recent fossil evidence that bears on this very important topic. This book builds upon Marvin Lubenow's Bones of Contention, published in 1992 and revised in 2004. This new book will help fill a large gap on this important topic. This is especially important since many major new finds have been discovered since 2004, which have significantly changed the thinking of many paleoanthropologist. What do the bones tell us about human evolution? Is there any type of consensus among experts in the field regarding the meaning of both the new and the old findings? These questions are answered in detail in this new book.
Jerry Bergman, PhDDr. Bergman has 9 degrees and has taughtbiology, genetics, chemistry, biochemistry, anthropology, geology, andmicrobiology at the college level for over 40 years. He has over 800publications in 12 languages and 20 books and monographs.