08-23-2007, 09:57 AM
Quote:A guy by the name of Stuart Pivar has written a tome that says that genetic biologists have their profession all wrong, and that only he knows the truth. In a blog entry (and some followups) PZ Myers pointed out that the guy is clearly wrong. I am no biologist, but it only takes a glance to see that this guy is, um, maybe not terribly accurate.
PZ called him a crackpot, and perhaps thats where the trouble lies. Pivar is suing PZ. Normally this can be shrugged off as just another goofball rattling the cage. Unfortunately, Pivar is a wealthy businessman, and can actually afford to follow through. Most times the cranks make threats, but cant afford a lawyer, and even if they could, the lawsuits have no merit.
Nor does this one, in fact. Besides the use of that single term, PZ takes apart the science and lack thereof of Pivars book. There can be no libel if no lie is committed in an attempt to defame, and PZ told the truth...
full article: http://www.badastronomy.com/bablog/2007/...-crackpot/
the book review: http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2007/...ryo_by.php