Articles for category: Fossils & Fieldwork

Fossils are nature’s time machines

When Prehistoric Bones Shook Religious Foundations

The discovery of prehistoric bones has repeatedly challenged religious doctrines and sparked intense debate throughout human history. From fossilized dinosaur remains to ancient hominid skeletons, these tangible pieces of Earth’s distant past have forced religious institutions and believers to reconcile their faith with scientific evidence. This article explores the fascinating historical intersections where paleontological discoveries ...

Dinosaur skeletons in a museum exhibit, featuring a prominent T. rex skull with jaws open. The setting is spacious with high ceilings and wooden displays.

The Black Market for Dinosaur Bones—and Why It’s a Big Problem

The majestic fossils of ancient dinosaurs that captivate us in museum displays represent more than just scientific treasures—they’re irreplaceable windows into Earth’s distant past. Yet beyond the carefully curated exhibits lies a shadowy world where these priceless specimens are treated as commodities, traded illegally for enormous sums of money. The black market for dinosaur fossils ...

Dental Fossils in Paleontology

When Fossils Challenged the Bible: The Church’s Early Reaction to Dinosaurs

In the early nineteenth century, as the first dinosaur fossils were being scientifically classified, a profound intellectual challenge emerged within Christian communities across Europe and America. The discovery of creatures that appeared nowhere in scripture—massive reptilian beasts that had dominated Earth long before humans—created a theological crisis that would reshape religious thought. These ancient bones ...