Re: Ancestors and descendants

[Dinogeorge@aol.com]

In a message dated 6/24/00 2:01:06 AM EST, NJPharris@aol.com writes:

<< But since we are looking for a consistent classification scheme here, we 
have 
 to make it applicable to my descendants as well as to me.  While I could 
 logically be classified with my ancestors or with my descendants, there is 
 only one place where my descendants can logically go: in a group with me. >>

No, they could also make up a new group of their own. Considering how little 
they are related to you, putting them into a group with you is a considerable 
stretch. Cladists do not allow this possibility, since they demand that all 
taxa be monophyletic, no matter how long the lineage might be or how 
different the descendants might be from their ancestors; but >logic< has 
little to do with this position. It is a matter of personal preference, not 
logic.