Everett C. Olson

Despite recent advances in genetics, development, anatomy, systematics, and morphometrics, the synthesis of ideas and research agenda put forth in the classic Morphological Integration remains remarkably fresh, timely, and relevant. Pioneers in reexamining morphology, Everett Olson and Robert Miller were among the first to explore the concept of the integrated organism in both living and extinct populations. In a new foreword and afterword, biologists Barry Chernoff and Paul Magwene summarize the landmark achievements made by Olson and Miller and bring matters discussed in the book up to date, suggest new methods, and accentuate the importance of continued research in morphological integration. Everett C. Olson was a professor at the University of Chicago and at the University of California, Los Angeles. He was a former president of the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology. Robert L. Miller was associate professor of geology at the University of Chicago, associate scientist in marine geology at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, and a member of the board of editors of the Journal of Geology.

This is a personal account of the human side of Everett C Olson's distinguished career as a palaeobiologist. Origins and the combination of events that led to a formal education at the University of Chicago, the selection of a career, and an interest in the Permian are reviewed. Then Olson vividly describes two decades of field work in Texas, emphasising the people, places and events that he and his co-workers encountered there at mid-century. The second half of the book is devoted to Olson's pioneering efforts in establishing and strengthening ties between palaeontologists of the US and USSR during the Cold War years and especially his deepening friendship with Professor Ivan A Efremov. Olson and Efremov, two scientists from different cultures, wrestled with opposing philosophies but shared common interests and emotions. This book will certainly be of interest to the many people who have known Dr Olson as colleague, mentor, and friend. For the general reader, the book provides insights into the career of a distinguished contemporary scientist and represents an important chapter in the 20th century history of palaeontology, earth science, and international scientific relations.