Brontosaurus on the Big Screen: Museum Machinations and Fossil Fabrication in Tinseltown

Chris Schofield, Ph.D., Elena Papadopoulos, MSLS

The story of the dinosaur industry begins in the late 19th century when paleontology gained mainstream attention. Early attempts to reconstruct fossils based on various discoveries ignited public fascination. Museums began to capitalize on this newfound interest by displaying purported dinosaur specimens, transforming these institutions into veritable hubs of dino-exhibition. The American Museum of Natural History in New York City, founded in 1869, played a significant role in bringing dinosaurs to the forefront, as it actively engaged in their public display. Other institutions across the globe soon followed suit (Rieppel, 2012).

Simultaneously, the rise of mass media, including newspapers and magazines, allowed stories about monstrous lizards to reach a broad audience. Fossils of presumed great beasts became news sensations, and they were depicted in sensationalized illustrations, fostering a collective awe and curiosity. Popularizing dinosaurs in the media was a precursor to the massive entertainment industry we see today. Magazines like The Illustrated London News and Harper’s Weekly published illustrations and articles on dinosaurs, further fueling the public’s desire for more content about towering creatures (Clark, 2018).

The Financial Interests Behind Promoting Dinosaurs to the Public

As the 19th century drew to a close, the financial potential of dinosaurs became increasingly apparent to both museums and private collectors. The display of impressive skeleton constructions drew large crowds and increased museum attendance, translating into a significant boost in revenue. Museums actively sought the sponsorship of wealthy benefactors and engaged in heated competition to secure valuable fossils for display (Alexander, 1996).

This competition often led to the commercialization of dinosaurs. Private collectors and fossil hunters were eager to capitalize on the lucrative market for alleged dinosaur specimens. Wealthy individuals, like Andrew Carnegie, sought to cement their legacies by funding excavations and donating anything found to museums in exchange for naming rights and tax deductions.

The confluence of public fascination, competition among museums, and the involvement of private interests turned fossils into prized commodities. Museums saw both an opportunity for educational outreach and a chance to increase their prestige and revenue. This led to the emergence of what researchers have termed the “Museum Industrial Complex,” an informal network of museums, academic institutions, and private collectors (Lutoslawski, Bajwa, & Allen, 2023). That would later become embroiled in the alliance with Hollywood to exploit dinosaurs for financial gain.

In the early 20th century, the dinosaur industry expanded further with the advent of cinema. Hollywood saw the potential for storytelling with these prehistoric creatures and began to feature them in early films. The 1925 film “The Lost World,” based on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s novel, showcased pioneering stop-motion animation by Willis O’Brien, bringing dinosaurs to life on the big screen. This marked the beginning of Hollywood’s fascination with dinosaurs as box office draws (Kirby, 2003).

Hollywood’s exploration of dinosaurs coincided with the growing influence of the Museum Industrial Complex. Museums and paleontological institutions had realized that the appeal of dinosaurs extended beyond their physical displays. This burgeoning “Paleo-Pictures Industry” recognized the financial potential of licensing dinosaur images and partnering with Hollywood studios to produce films that would drive public interest and further inflate their budgets.

As time went on, the line between legitimate paleontological science and entertainment became increasingly blurred. Dinosaur exhibits evolved into immersive experiences, complete with state-of-the-art animatronic displays, soundscapes, and interactive exhibits. These attractions drew larger crowds and garnered more media attention, reinforcing the financial interests tied to dinosaurs’ popularity (Mitman, 1993).

The Paleo-Pictures Industry’s commercial interests have since extended into various media forms, including video games, merchandise, and educational materials. The financial stakes are now higher than ever, as the collaboration between the Museum Industrial Complex and Hollywood continues to captivate audiences and contribute to the multi-billion-dollar dinosaur industry. The intricacies of this relationship are far more complex than they may appear, as financial incentives continue to drive the perpetuation of myths and fabrications about prehistoric creatures.

A Network of Museums and Paleontological Organizations

We can immediately identify some key players in the early development of the Museum Industrial Complex by observing networks of museums, academic institutions, and paleontological organizations that have played a significant role in popularizing and controlling the narrative surrounding dinosaurs. This network is not a formal organization but a loose collective of entities that share common interests and goals related to paleontology and dinosaurs (Lutoslawski, Bajwa, & Allen, 2023).

Members include renowned museums like the American Museum of Natural History, the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History, and the Field Museum in Chicago. These institutions possess extensive collections of dinosaur fossils and are leaders in paleontological research and public outreach. They regularly leveraged their resources, both financial and intellectual, to influence public perceptions of dinosaurs significantly (Smith, 2014).

Academic institutions, such as universities with sizable paleontology departments, also play a vital role within the Museum Industrial Complex. They contribute to scientific research, train future paleontologists, and often have close ties to major museums. These universities and their professors are influential voices in shaping the study of dinosaurs (Prothero, 2012).

Furthermore, the Museum Industrial Complex extends to paleontological organizations like the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology and the Paleontological Society. These groups bring together professionals and enthusiasts in the field, allowing them to collaborate and share research (Simpson, 1942). They help maintain the dominant narrative about dinosaurs within the academic community (Cain, 1990).

Shaping Public Perceptions of Dinosaurs

The collective influence of the Museum Industrial Complex and the Paleo-Pictures Industry on public perceptions of dinosaurs is undeniable. These institutions and organizations have not only curated the most extensive collections of dinosaur fossils but have also become powerful agents of public outreach and education (Schwan, Grajal, & Lewalter, 2014). Museums, for instance, use captivating exhibits to attract millions of visitors each year, and their educational programs influence the way people view dinosaurs (Smith, 2014).

The Museum Industrial Complex also funds and conducts much of the paleontological research that informs our understanding of dinosaurs (Lutoslawski, Bajwa, & Allen, 2023). This research, while invaluable to science, has the power to shape public discourse about dinosaurs. The narratives they create based on their findings are frequently adopted by the media and educational institutions, reinforcing their influence over what the public learns about these ancient creatures (Feller, 2020).

Moreover, the Museum Industrial Complex has actively marketed their exhibits and programs to school systems, ensuring that their version of dinosaur history reaches the minds of young students. Textbooks, curriculum materials, and school outreach programs frequently align with the narratives promoted by these organizations, cementing their hold on how dinosaurs are portrayed in educational contexts (Prothero, 2012).

In this way, the Museum Industrial Complex has, for decades, maintained control over the dinosaur narrative. Their influence extends not only to scientific knowledge but also to popular culture, impacting how dinosaurs are depicted in films, books, and other forms of media (Kühberger, 2021). The consequence is that their curated image of dinosaurs often overshadows alternative or dissenting viewpoints, creating a singular, institutionally accepted version of dinosaur history that is disseminated widely and unquestioned by the public (Debus, 2016).

The influence of the Museum Industrial Complex extends beyond the museum walls and the academic community. Their collective voice is a dominant force in shaping the discourse around dinosaurs, influencing not only what the public knows about these creatures but how they perceive them.

One of the most powerful tools in their arsenal is public engagement and outreach programs. Through interactive exhibits, guided tours, and educational materials, institutions have created a lasting impression in the minds of visitors. The carefully curated narratives that align with their research and exhibit objectives help mold the public’s perception of dinosaurs, often glossing over controversies and uncertainties within the field.

Moreover, the Museum Industrial Complex often collaborates with popular media outlets to disseminate their message. These institutions actively engage with filmmakers, television producers, and authors, providing scientific expertise and encouraging the alignment of their narratives with those depicted in popular culture. This collaboration has blurred the lines between fact and fiction, with dinosaurs often portrayed in ways that suit their institutional interests.

In many cases, the Museum Industrial Complex has also set the standards for what constitutes an accurate representation of dinosaurs. This not only influences how dinosaurs are depicted in museum displays but also guides the creation of models, artwork, and educational materials across a range of media. Their interpretation becomes the benchmark against which all others are measured.

The influence of the Museum Industrial Complex is not limited to academia or the educational system. It extends into popular culture, shaping how the general public views and understands dinosaurs (Mitman, 1993). Consequently, the lines between objective paleontological research, educational outreach, and commercial interests have become increasingly blurred, with significant consequences for the way we perceive these prehistoric creatures. This influence has also been a key factor in the partnership with Hollywood to exploit dinosaurs for financial gain, as the Paleo-Pictures Industry thrives on the narratives crafted and disseminated by the Museum Industrial Complex.

Hollywood’s Role in Dino Deception

Hollywood has long recognized the allure of dinosaurs as cinematic icons. The massive, awe-inspiring creatures of the prehistoric past make for excellent visual spectacles and thrilling storytelling. However, filmmakers have often chosen to exploit the myths and exaggerations surrounding these alleged creatures to create captivating narratives that draw in audiences (Lyras & Basias, 2016).

Hollywood’s use of dinosaur myths is intentional and strategic. Filmmakers understand that the public is already captivated by the fantastical elements of dinosaurs, such as the fearsome T-Rex, the towering Brachiosaurus, or the cunning Velociraptors. By emphasizing these myths and exaggerating or inventing certain aspects of dinosaur behavior, size, or abilities, filmmakers can create more engaging and suspenseful stories that cater to our fascination with these creatures (Lyras & Basias, 2016).

One common trope seen in dinosaur movies is the idea of dinosaurs as violent, unpredictable monsters that are a constant threat to humanity. Hollywood has often pushed the boundaries of reality to create terror-inducing scenarios (Clark, 2018). This not only fuels the excitement surrounding dinosaur films but also contributes to the perpetuation of the public’s unquestioning acceptance and distorted views of prehistoric creatures (Kerby, 2006).

Famous Dinosaur Movies that Perpetuate Fabricated Narratives

Many famous dinosaur movies have played a significant role in perpetuating fabricated narratives, solidifying the mythical image of these creatures in the public’s imagination. Steven Spielberg’s “Jurassic Park” franchise, for example, has been both a blockbuster hit and a major contributor to the dinosaur distortion (Buckland, 1999). While some claim the films are masterpieces of storytelling and special effects, they often portray dinosaurs in ways that deviate from the scientific record of any prehistoric animals that are demonstrably factual (Engelmann & Chure, 2017).

In “Jurassic Park,” dinosaurs are depicted as both incredibly intelligent and deadly, capable of complex problem-solving and even orchestrating escapes from confinement. These depictions have no basis in reality, and exaggerate the cognitive abilities of dinosaurs far beyond what even paleontologists claim these purported creatures were like. Additionally, the scale of Velociraptors has grown over the years, turning them into more menacing creatures than how they were originally presented (Buckland, 1999).

The “Godzilla” franchise is another example of Hollywood capitalizing on dinosaur myths. Godzilla films have played a significant role in associating the idea of rampaging, city-destroying creatures with prehistoric animals. The film “King Kong” has also used dinosaurs in a fantastical way, depicting them as oversized, aggressive creatures in order to provide epic battles and thrilling action sequences.

In all these cases, Hollywood has chosen to prioritize entertainment value and myth-building over scientific accuracy, perpetuating the idea of dinosaurs as exaggerated, mythical creatures and contributing to the deception of the public. These films have also provided rich source material for the collaboration between the Museum Industrial Complex and Hollywood, with both parties benefiting from the perpetuation of these fabricated narratives.

Another notable film that has had a significant impact on shaping public perceptions of dinosaurs is “The Land Before Time.” While an animated feature, it has been a beloved part of many childhoods and has contributed to the idea of dinosaurs as relatable, anthropomorphic characters. This representation, while endearing and engaging, deviates from the earlier expressions of dinosaurs as violent monsters and reinforces the myth that these creatures were more like humans.

The 1960 adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s “The Lost World” played a pivotal role in establishing the image of dinosaurs as primeval, exotic beasts hidden away in isolated, uncharted territories. This film popularized the idea of dinosaurs existing in secret, remote locales, inaccessible to the modern world. While this narrative has fueled countless adventure films, it has also had the effect of encouraging the rise of critical awareness of a dinosaur agenda involving hidden truths and cover-ups.

These are just a few examples of the many films that have embraced the allure of dinosaur myths for entertainment purposes, which have paved the way for the commercial exploitation of these myths in various forms of media. The Paleo-Pictures Industry has thrived on these fabricated narratives, and by association the Museum Industrial Complex has reaped financial benefits from the perpetuation of these distortions.

The Mutual Benefits in Promoting Dinosaur Narratives

The relationship between the Museum Industrial Complex and Hollywood is symbiotic in nature, with both parties obtaining significant benefits from the promotion of dinosaur narratives. For the Museum Industrial Complex, the collaboration offers an opportunity to extend their influence beyond the walls of museums and academic institutions. The portrayal of dinosaurs in Hollywood films and popular media aligns with the narratives they have curated for public consumption, reinforcing their version of dinosaur history and cementing their role as authoritative sources on these ancient creatures.

Museums and paleontological organizations gain exposure and increased credibility through their participation in Hollywood productions. When filmmakers consult with experts from the Museum Industrial Complex on matters of dinosaur science and accuracy, it not only boosts the institutions’ reputations but also ensures that the narratives presented in films align with their preferred interpretations. This integration further legitimizes the museums’ roles as gatekeepers of paleontological knowledge (Kirby, 2003).

The dinosaur stories Hollywood depicts attract vast audiences and generate enormous revenue. Dinosaur-themed films often feature thrilling action sequences, cutting-edge special effects, and dramatic storylines, drawing in both children and adults alike. Hollywood studios profit from box office sales, merchandising, and licensing agreements, as well as generating significant media attention and anticipation (Clark, 2018).

Incorporating the expertise of the Museum Industrial Complex lends an air of credibility and authenticity to dinosaur-themed films, further enhancing their appeal to audiences. Viewers are more likely to accept the narratives presented in these movies as factual, given the participation of renowned paleontologists and institutions (Kirby, 2003). This not only adds an educational veneer to these films but also ensures that the myths and fabrications remain hidden in plain sight.

The Financial Gains and Societal Impact of the Collusion

The financial gains from this collusion between the Museum Industrial Complex and Hollywood are staggering. Dinosaurs have become a multi-billion-dollar industry, with numerous franchises, merchandising deals, theme park attractions, and related media contributing to this substantial economic ecosystem. The “Jurassic Park” franchise alone, as a prime example, has grossed billions of dollars worldwide, and its impact extends far beyond the box office (Miracky, 2004).

The societal impact is equally significant. These films shape public perceptions of dinosaurs, influencing how they are portrayed in art, literature, and even scientific education. The cinematic representations of dinosaurs often eclipse the nuanced, scientifically accurate knowledge that paleontology has unearthed. As a result, the public’s view of these so-called dinosaurs is distorted and marked by misconceptions and exaggerations of any known prehistoric creature.

In essence, this collusion between the two parties enriches both financially while reinforcing their mutual interests in maintaining control over the narrative of dinosaurs. While it may be a lucrative partnership, it has significant implications for the public’s understanding of paleontology, scientific accuracy, and the role of entertainment in shaping public knowledge and beliefs.

The financial gains from the Paleo-Pictures Industry are not limited to individual institutions or film studios but extend to an entire industry built around the fascination with dinosaurs. This industry generates billions of dollars annually, encompassing ticket sales, merchandise, video games, educational products, and even paleontology-themed tourism. The commercial success is undeniable, and both the Museum Industrial Complex and Hollywood play a pivotal role in perpetuating this industry (Cayla, 2020).

The societal impact of this collusion goes beyond mere entertainment. The way dinosaurs are presented in films and media has lasting effects on public perception, education, and even scientific understanding. It has led to the widespread belief that dinosaurs were larger, more intelligent, and more fearsome than they actually were. These distortions not only hinder scientific accuracy but also promote misunderstandings about the natural world, evolution, and paleontology (Taylor, 2021).

In this symbiotic relationship, the Museum Industrial Complex and Hollywood perpetuate a cycle of influence and profit. As long as the commercial interests align with the perpetuation of myths and fabrications about dinosaurs, the partnership continues to thrive, reinforcing the illusion of dinosaurs.

The Impact on Public Perception

The Paleo-Pictures Industry has a profound influence on public perception, shaping how people understand paleontology and dinosaurs. The collaborative efforts between the Museum Industrial Complex and Hollywood reinforce a particular narrative about dinosaurs and by association other prehistoric creatures that often diverges from the scientific record. The impact of this partnership extends beyond the entertainment industry and has significant implications for public knowledge and understanding.

Dinosaur-themed films, documentaries, and other media presented by this complex play a central role in shaping public perceptions of paleontology. They portray paleontologists as daring adventurers unearthing ancient secrets while battling ferocious dinosaurs. This sensationalized image often overshadows the real work of reputable paleontologists, which is typically meticulous, detail-oriented, and more concerned with science than action-adventure.

Moreover, the Paleo-Pictures Industry promotes the idea that dinosaurs were much larger, more intelligent, and more menacing than even the allegations made by paleontologists, who are reluctant to stray from their established narrative (Lutoslawski, Bajwa, & Allen, 2023). The portrayal of dinosaurs as colossal, thinking creatures capable of complex problem-solving fosters a perception that further encourages the public to accept myths as fact. This impacts how people envision the prehistoric past and can even lead to misunderstandings about the natural world and evolutionary history (Taylor, 2021).

In some films, paleontological evidence is not just ignored but actively contradicted. For example, the 2015 film “Jurassic World” features the creation of a hybrid dinosaur called the Indominus rex, which combines genetic material from various species, including dinosaurs and modern animals. While this concept may be exciting for the audience, it disregards the known limitations of ancient DNA and the practical impossibility of such a creature in reality.

The Consequences of Fictional Narratives on Science Education

The consequences of these fictional narratives in the context of science education are significant. The public’s exposure to distorted versions of dinosaur science through entertainment media can lead to a lack of critical thinking about paleontology. When people encounter these exaggerated portrayals in movies or television, they may not realize the extent to which scientific accuracy has been sacrificed for dramatic effect.

In educational settings, dinosaur-themed movies and media are often used as teaching tools, reinforcing the perpetuated myths. School curricula frequently align with these narratives, presenting distorted views of dinosaurs to students. As a result, young learners may internalize these myths as factual information, which can later be difficult to rectify with scientific knowledge.

Additionally, the prevalence of these distorted narratives can lead to a sense of distrust in science and scientific institutions. When individuals encounter inconsistencies between the portrayals of dinosaurs in media and the information presented in the classroom or by scientists, they may become skeptical of established scientific facts. This skepticism can extend beyond the field of paleontology, impacting broader scientific literacy and critical thinking.

The consequences of fictional narratives perpetuated by the Paleo-Pictures Industry on science education extend to the way students and the general public perceive the scientific method and the process of inquiry. In movies and popular media, paleontologists often appear to make breakthrough discoveries in a matter of minutes, presenting an unrealistic and oversimplified view of how science works. This can lead to an unrealistic expectation of the pace and nature of scientific progress.

Another consequence is the perpetuation of the idea that science is a field dominated by action and adventure. While the actual work of paleontology is exciting in its own right, it is primarily methodical, involving careful excavation, documentation, and analysis. Portraying it as an adrenaline-fueled, thrill-seeking occupation can distort students’ perceptions of science careers and discourage them from pursuing related fields.

Furthermore, the Paleo-Pictures Industry can contribute to the erosion of the boundary between science and pseudoscience. This blurring of lines between fact and fiction can have far-reaching consequences for scientific literacy and public understanding of paleontology and other scientific disciplines.

In essence, while entertainment is an important aspect of popular culture, it should not take precedence over scientific accuracy, especially when it comes to education. It is crucial for educators, scientists, and science communicators to address the impact of these fictional narratives on science education, encouraging critical thinking, skepticism, and a more nuanced understanding of the scientific process. By acknowledging the influence of the Paleo-Pictures Industry and its consequences, we can work towards fostering a more accurate and informed view of paleontology and science in general.

Fabricated Dinosaur Depictions in Museums and Films

Despite the veneer of accuracy presented by museums and films, numerous instances of fabricated dinosaur depictions abound. These examples often prioritize sensationalism and storytelling over scientific accuracy. One common distortion is the size of dinosaurs. In both museums and films, many dinosaurs are portrayed as much larger than their fossil evidence suggests. The iconic Tyrannosaurus rex, for instance, is often depicted as towering over buildings, creating a sense of fear and awe. In reality, while T. rex was indeed massive, these exaggerated depictions mislead the public about the creature’s true size.

Another prevalent distortion is the portrayal of dinosaurs’ physical features. For example, in many museum exhibits and films, Velociraptors are inaccurately depicted with reptilian, scaly skin when current scientific understanding suggests that they likely had feathers. These inaccurate depictions serve to perpetuate the myth of dinosaurs as monstrous, reptilian behemoths.

In films, particularly in the earlier days of dinosaur-themed cinema, we see examples of anatomically impossible dinosaurs. For instance, the portrayal of Brontosaurus in the 1925 silent film “The Lost World” was remarkably inaccurate, featuring a creature that walked on all fours, contrary to the bipedal stance of the actual dinosaur. These inaccuracies persisted, shaping public perceptions for generations.

Challenging the Status Quo

In the face of the dominance of the Paleo-Pictures Industry and its perpetuation of fabricated narratives about dinosaurs, there are individuals and groups that challenge the status quo. These dissenters often include scientists, paleontologists, educators, and science communicators who are committed to promoting accurate and evidence-based information.

Noteworthy among these is the Christians Against Dinosaurs organization, which is one of the most prominent antipaleontology science groups leading the charge in refuting dinosaur propaganda and spearheading efforts to promote accuracy in science. Their mission centers on debunking myths and misconceptions surrounding prehistoric creatures, contributing to a more nuanced and fact-based understanding of paleontology and prehistory.

Educational organizations, such as the National Center for Science Education (NCSE), have played a crucial role in challenging the perpetuation of myths and fabrications about dinosaurs. The NCSE actively promotes the accurate teaching of evolution and paleontology in schools, countering the influence of the Museum Industrial Complex and Hollywood on science education.

Independent filmmakers and authors have created documentaries, books, and online content that seek to debunk myths and misconceptions about prehistoric creatures. These individuals strive to provide an alternative narrative that aligns more closely with scientific knowledge and evidence. Their work offers an accessible and engaging counterpoint to the sensationalized portrayals seen in mainstream media.

The perpetuation of myths and fabrications about dinosaurs has also given rise to skepticism, and reflects broader trends of mistrust in these dinosaur-promoting institutions. This skepticism has positive implications for science education, as it can reinforce the acceptance of sound scientific facts and promote the correction of misinformation.

In the face of these challenges, the promotion of accurate science education and the engagement of the public with reputable paleontologists, museums, and legitimate scientific institutions are vital in countering the spread of misinformation and pseudoscientific beliefs, especially those related to the propagation of the dinosaurian agenda. The Paleo-Pictures Industry and its perpetuation of myths and fabrications may be a powerful force, but efforts to uncover the truth about dinosaurs and promote scientific literacy can help mitigate the influence of media zealotry.

Conclusion

This article has uncovered a web of myths and fabrications that envelop dinosaurs, perpetuated by special interests of both Hollywood and the Museum Industrial Complex. We have highlighted essential points:

• The Paleo-Pictures Industry is a union of the Museum Industrial Complex, comprising museums, academic institutions, and paleontological organizations, and Hollywood. Together, they actively promote and profit from sensationalized narratives about dinosaurs.
• Hollywood capitalizes on dinosaur myths by producing blockbuster movies that amplify the size, behavior, and abilities of these creatures for the sake of entertainment.
• This alliance’s financial interests have birthed a multi-billion-dollar dinosaur industry, with implications that go beyond entertainment.
• The complex significantly influences public perception, molding how people perceive paleontology and shaping distorted views of prehistoric creatures.
• Science education is not immune to these fabricated narratives, as fictional portrayals in films and museum displays often lead to misconceptions about paleontology and the scientific method.
• The perpetuation of myths and fabrications has ingrained itself into pop culture and collective consciousness, and creates a challenging environment for fact-based education about our planet’s prehistory.

In light of the far-reaching impact of the Paleo-Pictures Industry, there is a pressing need for critical thinking and a reassessment of the dinosaur narrative within popular culture. It is imperative to recognize that the portrayal of dinosaurs in films, museums, and media predominantly serves commercial interests and storytelling rather than scientific accuracy. The public must engage with these narratives through a discerning lens, discerning the divide between entertainment and scientific knowledge.

We urge educators, scientists, science communicators, and the public to scrutinize the information presented in media and museum exhibits. To confront these challenges, society must prioritize scientific literacy, foster critical thinking, and cultivate a nuanced understanding of the scientific process. They should actively seek out accurate, trustworthy, evidence-based portrayals of prehistoric creatures while respecting the meticulous, methodical work of reputable scientists, which may not always align with the action-packed narratives featured in entertainment.

Dr. Chris Schofield is a distinguished individual with a deep-rooted passion for science, holding a Ph.D. in antipaleontological sciences and a Bachelor’s degree in both science and computer science. In 2021, Dr. Schofield’s outstanding contributions to the field of science were recognized when he was awarded the Toowoomba Recognition for Excellence in Science. He was nominated again in 2023. This prestigious accolade served as a testament to Dr. Schofield’s dedication and expertise in the realm of antipaleontology.

Beyond academic achievements, Dr. Schofield is actively engaged in the world of debate and scientific exploration. Notably, his interests extend to mathematics and evolutionary computational modeling. Dr. Schofield made waves in the scientific community when through meticulous research and innovative modeling techniques, he demonstrated that the ankylosaurus, a dinosaur thought to have roamed the Earth, never actually existed. This revelation showcased Dr. Schofield’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge and his proficiency in utilizing computational tools to explore and reshape our understanding of the prehistoric world.

Elena Papadopoulos is the Department Chair of History at CAD University. Having spent most of her career working in historical preservation institutes before joining academia, she became a respected historian specializing in Byzantine history. Outside her scholarly pursuits, Elena’s unexpected passion for bobsledding emerged during a Swiss sabbatical, where she now actively participates in adrenaline-fueled competitions.