Big news item of the day: Darwinius masillae. New primate fossil, apparently found in Germany in 1983, but purchased by the lead scientist on this particular research cookie in 2006. Why not reveal it then? Because you have to figure out what it is and present it in a neat, crispy package fit for information consumption.
So here we are, roughly two-three years later, igniting a media frenzy of "Missing Link?!?" articles. Myers discusses and links to MOAR discussion about why this label is inappropriate here. Relevant points include the fact that EVERY fossil is a link between other fossils, and that this particular fossil, while important and undoubtedly fascinating, likely isn't going to shake the scientific establishment like an asteroid hurtling to Earth.
However, I'd like to bring up another interesting point which hasn't been brought up yet- such widespread coverage will hopefully attract more people to the pure awesomeness of biology. Much like a recent xkcd (which apparently won't fully show in this format, AGGH. Livejournal: 1, Blogger: 0. so here's the link)
Aha yes. Everyone will be under our will one day. MWAHAHAHA.
