You wrote:

> Gerry given that the "genetic distance" between Modern HSS mtDNA is

a

> maximum of 150,000 years, and that with Neanderthals seems to

suggest

> 600,000 years, it would appear that Neanderthals are wholly outside
> the human lineage. Given that a species (eg the Polar Bear) has

only

> a 60,000 year diversion from the Kodiak grizzly, this seems to
> suggest that Neanderthalers stand a fair chance of being a sub-
> species, if not a totally different species.

John, from what I understand, mtDNA studies are still suspect.
Besides, they only contribute to a portion of the picture (actually
through the female lineage). The evidence is still out so I wouldn't
at this time stake my academic career on mtDNA.

Best wishes,
Gerry