Symbiotic cells give rise to more complex life forms
Life’s history on Earth is punctuated by some important transitions. One of the more important ones was the development of symbiotic, interdependent relationships between simple prokaryotic cells, such as bacteria. This made possible a new kind of life form: the more complex eukaryotic cells that make up body tissues in complex organisms.
Human harm to climate is clear; why wait to act?
My wife and I recently returned from a vacation in Patagonia. One thing that struck me were the repeated reminders people in this southern South American region gave us to keep covered and apply sunscreen liberally.
Human progress tied to evolution of our brains
The neural circuits and hormones that give rise to the functions of the human brain were optimized for the survival of our ancestors.
Ideas Darwin synthesized brewed for centuries
Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection was a synthesis of ideas that had been brewing for centuries, indeed millennia, about the origins of and relationships between the organisms inhabiting the planet.
Evolutionary theory grows stronger with age
As all good theories should, the theory of evolution has grown to account for new discoveries.
Ocean currents set stage for world's weather
The world’s ocean currents play a critical role in climate. Those currents are influenced by atmospheric conditions. These interactions between the oceans and atmosphere determine how vital rain and snow are distributed around the globe.
Political pressures twist science to fit agendas
The past two decades have seen ever increasing efforts to distort science in support of one political agenda or another.
Feynman's joy in discovery a lesson for us all
One of the greatest minds and most intriguing personalities of the twentieth century was Richard Feynman.
Feynman's joy in discovery a lesson for us all
One of the greatest minds and most intriguing personalities of the twentieth century was Richard Feynman.
Science valid, even when unpopular
Sadly, science is coming under increasing attack from those who would like the world to be different from what science demonstrates it to be. In doing so, critics attempt to turn one of science's greatest assets into a liability.
