From: Phil Nicholls
To: Barbara Brasfield
93-03-09 15:29:46
Re: Gould and Eldridge:
 
 
  "We proposed the theory of punctuated equilibrium largely to provide
  a different explanation for pervasive trends in the fossil record.
  Trends, we argued, cannot be attributed to gradual transformation
  within lineages, but must arise from the differential success of
  certain kinds of species. A trend, we argued, is more like climbing
  a flight of stairs (punctuations and stasis) than rolling up an
  inclined plane.

  "Since we proposed punctuated equilibrium to explain trends, it is
  infuriating to be quoted again and again by creationists --WHETHER
  THROUGH DESIGN OR STUPIDITY, I do not know-- as admitting that the
  fossil record includes no transitional forms. The punctuatons
  occur at the level of species; directiona trends (on the staircase
  model) are rife at the 'ligher' level [that should be 'higher'
  level] of transitions within major groups."

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Gould and Eldridge are not using the same arguments as creationists.
If you would bother to actually READ Gould's writing, you would be
aware of that.
 
Source of quote: Evolution as Fact and Theory, Discover, May 1981.