In a message dated 2/14/2003 2:16:26 PM Central Standard Time, wlwatts@cox.net writes:

Michelle wrote:

> Maybe
> we should be thinking more along the lines of SPACE LEMURS.  They have a
> proven lineage, you see.
>
> :)
> -Michelle
> (Wakin & Bakin)
>

Let's go back a wee further and try SPACE LIZARDS or SPACE BIRDS. After landing on
some distant rock in a few million years, maybe we'll evolve into big
super-intelligent flesh-eating flying T-Rex's with opposable thumbs..

That would be pleasant.    :(

Walter
--

Walter Watts
Tulsa Network Solutions, Inc.

"No one gets to see the Wizard! Not nobody! Not no how!"


[Jake]  I think we should stick to monkeys, possibly lemurs (who by the way also lie relatively close to humans in cladistic terms).  I think part of the major appeal of something close to us comes in anthropomorphism.  Now of course I know that their existence will differ from humans, but starting with something closer to us in biological terms I think ensures that they will get the most benefit out of human culture.  Of course I would expect in time that will develop their own distinct culture.  And I also expect that in time we may find all sorts of practical reasons to even try some genetically altered intelligent protostomes, octopuses come to mind as they already have some significant encephalization comparable to or even exceeding that of many mammals or birds (actually we could start by extending their disappointingly short life spans).  But for starters I think beginning with something fairly anthropomorphic makes lots of sense both scientifically and psychologically.  Besides, I bet chicks will love them!  Small, furry, cute, and easy to identify with.  And we definitely need more chicks in the CoV!

:-)

Love,

-Jake