Waterton Canyon, which incises the foothills southwest of Denver, represents the South Platte's final journey through the Rocky Mountains before it rumbles onto the Colorado Piedmont. Harboring a wealth of scenic rock formations and home to a wide variety of Transition Zone flora and fauna, the canyon has long been a popular destination for hikers, birders, fishermen and naturalists. Over the past decade or so, it has also become a mecca for bikers and joggers, now comprising at least 75% of the visitors.
While these trail athletes surely enjoy the pristine landscape, at least in a holistic sense, I doubt they pay much attention to the varied plants and animals, focused as they are on distance and time. As they turdge along, gasping and spitting, or whiz by on their trail bikes, I often wonder if they could identify even a handful of species that inhabit the canyon. They surely notice the bighorn sheep, for which this refuge is well known, but a fleeting glance is probably sufficient.
In this age of obesity, I certainly have no objection to aerobic exercise. But I suspect these bikers and joggers choose Waterton Canyon for its graded climb and known distance (6 miles to the Strontia Springs Dam); of course, they also enjoy group exercise and avoid the heavy auto traffic that occurs in other foothill canyons. Some might conclude that I envy the youth and vitality of these athletes (which is surely true to some extent) but I am more inclined to pity their lack of interest in nature's bounty. Dogs are not permitted in Waterton Canyon in order to protect the bighorn sheep; perhaps we should limit its use as an athletic training site in order to protect the natural milieu.
Tampilkan postingan dengan label philosophy. Tampilkan semua postingan
Tampilkan postingan dengan label philosophy. Tampilkan semua postingan
Jumat, 13 Juli 2012
Jumat, 29 Juni 2012
Life in the Universe
Current scientific evidence indicates that the Universe is 13.7 billion years old and that the galaxies formed 12 billion years ago. Yet, our home star, the sun, is less than 5 billion years old, the Earth formed just 4.6 billion years ago, unicellular life did not evolve on our planet until 3.6 billion years ago and we humans did not appear until 130,000 years ago. Countless suns, their solar systems and the life that inhabited their planets likely evolved and disappeared long before our own sun and planet came into existence.
Among the 100 billion galaxies and trillions of stars that stretch across the ever-expanding Universe, there are surely millions of other planets that sustain life which, in many if not most cases, has progressed farther along the evolutionary tree than has life here on Earth. In other words, it is almost a certainty that many human-like civilizations inhabit this Universe, most of which are more advanced than our own.
It is understandable that religious persons might find these rational facts too threatening to contemplate but it is disconcerting to hear scientists and scientific journalists question whether life exists elsewhere in the Universe. Sitting here on our smallish planet that circles a modest-sized star on an outer band of a massive galaxy, it is absurd to suggest that we might be the only intelligent beings that inhabit the billions of galaxies. The Universe surely teems with life and it is only our irrational self-importance that keeps us from embracing that fact.
Among the 100 billion galaxies and trillions of stars that stretch across the ever-expanding Universe, there are surely millions of other planets that sustain life which, in many if not most cases, has progressed farther along the evolutionary tree than has life here on Earth. In other words, it is almost a certainty that many human-like civilizations inhabit this Universe, most of which are more advanced than our own.
It is understandable that religious persons might find these rational facts too threatening to contemplate but it is disconcerting to hear scientists and scientific journalists question whether life exists elsewhere in the Universe. Sitting here on our smallish planet that circles a modest-sized star on an outer band of a massive galaxy, it is absurd to suggest that we might be the only intelligent beings that inhabit the billions of galaxies. The Universe surely teems with life and it is only our irrational self-importance that keeps us from embracing that fact.
Senin, 11 Juni 2012
The Rise of Independence
A recent poll of Americans, reported on the PBS News Hour, revealed that 38% of us identify ourselves as being politically independent; some 32% expressed an affiliation with the Democratic Party while only 24% claimed to be Republicans. I suppose the other 6% are simply apathetic.
In light of ongoing stagnation within the U.S. Congress, it is no wonder that more Americans prefer to be identified as an Independent than to be associated with one of our traditional political parties. But one can hope that this move toward independence also reflects a broader degree of human enlightenment. While our species has a long history of tribalism, first adopted for self defense and later usurped to achieve and maintain power, this trait continues to be a source of discrimination, divisiveness and intolerance. In the spirit of John Lennon's immortal song, imagine a world without countries or religions.
Oppression, after all, has many faces. Its enforcement is not limited to dictators; rather, our freedom is often curtailed by the power of organized religions and entrenched political parties. The rise of independence will, over time, shatter their grip on the soul of humanity.
In light of ongoing stagnation within the U.S. Congress, it is no wonder that more Americans prefer to be identified as an Independent than to be associated with one of our traditional political parties. But one can hope that this move toward independence also reflects a broader degree of human enlightenment. While our species has a long history of tribalism, first adopted for self defense and later usurped to achieve and maintain power, this trait continues to be a source of discrimination, divisiveness and intolerance. In the spirit of John Lennon's immortal song, imagine a world without countries or religions.
Oppression, after all, has many faces. Its enforcement is not limited to dictators; rather, our freedom is often curtailed by the power of organized religions and entrenched political parties. The rise of independence will, over time, shatter their grip on the soul of humanity.
Minggu, 03 Juni 2012
American Creationists
This week, CNN reported on a recent survey of American adults that revealed almost half of us reject the concept of human evolution and believe that humans were created by God within the past 10,000 years; among Republicans, 60% hold this view. This large contingent of creationists is, to say the least, disturbing to those of us who accept the scientific method as the only legitimate means for solving the mysteries of the Universe and for defining our place within its vast realm.
The results of the survey suggest that two factors are at play. First, scientific education within the U.S. is woefully deficient, even among college-educated adults. Second, the influence of organized religion in America remains very powerful and, despite the copious scientific evidence that supports human evolution, many religious persons either choose to ignore that data or find the ancient, pre-scientific writings of early prophets more convincing. There is little doubt that religious beliefs, ingrained in childhood and sustained by fear and guilt, fuel distrust of science, as they have since the earliest days of human civilization.
The fact that we live on a small planet near the outer edge of a massive galaxy that is one of billions of galaxies in our Universe seems to have no bearing on their belief; neither does the evidence that the Universe is 13.7 billion years old, that Earth is 4.6 billion years old and that life has colonized our planet for 3.6 billion years. If the creationists are correct, God is a very patient deity indeed.
The results of the survey suggest that two factors are at play. First, scientific education within the U.S. is woefully deficient, even among college-educated adults. Second, the influence of organized religion in America remains very powerful and, despite the copious scientific evidence that supports human evolution, many religious persons either choose to ignore that data or find the ancient, pre-scientific writings of early prophets more convincing. There is little doubt that religious beliefs, ingrained in childhood and sustained by fear and guilt, fuel distrust of science, as they have since the earliest days of human civilization.
The fact that we live on a small planet near the outer edge of a massive galaxy that is one of billions of galaxies in our Universe seems to have no bearing on their belief; neither does the evidence that the Universe is 13.7 billion years old, that Earth is 4.6 billion years old and that life has colonized our planet for 3.6 billion years. If the creationists are correct, God is a very patient deity indeed.
Minggu, 27 Mei 2012
Faith & Suffering
It seems very likely that religious beliefs first arose in early human clans (some 130,000 years ago) when gods were invoked to counter fear and suffering. After all, our distant ancestors were traumatized by natural catastrophes, brutal weather, predators, mysterious diseases, fatal injuries, famine and tribal warfare on a regular, if not daily, basis.
At some point during our evolution, certainly by three to four thousand years ago, suffering had become more than the impetus for religious ritual; it had become ingrained in the rites themselves. We humans had come to imagine that our gods are appeased by suffering; as a result, human sacrifice, self-inflicted pain and self denial became an essential part of religious ceremony. Even today, despite our advanced scientific knowledge, such attitudes persist, represented by a wide range of beliefs and rituals, from giving up desserts during Lent to volunteering as a suicide bomber. Orders of monks and nuns retreat to lives of fasting and prayer, Catholic priests take vows of celibacy, devout believers lash themselves with reeds or whips and many (if not most) of the faithful view their earthly suffering as a ticket to heavenly rewards.
Of course, if this delusional, suffering-based faith only affected those who practice it, the rest of us would be free to focus on the enlightenment of human culture. Unfortunately, their beliefs permeate human society, stifling education, fomenting warfare, fostering intolerance and instilling fear in younger generations. Worse yet, those who view suffering as a means to salvation are more willing to inflict its scourge on the innocent. One hopes that we will eventually evolve beyond these primitive delusions but our zealous, god-fearing brethren, obsessed with their image of a vindictive deity, are not likely to fade from the scene anytime soon.
At some point during our evolution, certainly by three to four thousand years ago, suffering had become more than the impetus for religious ritual; it had become ingrained in the rites themselves. We humans had come to imagine that our gods are appeased by suffering; as a result, human sacrifice, self-inflicted pain and self denial became an essential part of religious ceremony. Even today, despite our advanced scientific knowledge, such attitudes persist, represented by a wide range of beliefs and rituals, from giving up desserts during Lent to volunteering as a suicide bomber. Orders of monks and nuns retreat to lives of fasting and prayer, Catholic priests take vows of celibacy, devout believers lash themselves with reeds or whips and many (if not most) of the faithful view their earthly suffering as a ticket to heavenly rewards.
Of course, if this delusional, suffering-based faith only affected those who practice it, the rest of us would be free to focus on the enlightenment of human culture. Unfortunately, their beliefs permeate human society, stifling education, fomenting warfare, fostering intolerance and instilling fear in younger generations. Worse yet, those who view suffering as a means to salvation are more willing to inflict its scourge on the innocent. One hopes that we will eventually evolve beyond these primitive delusions but our zealous, god-fearing brethren, obsessed with their image of a vindictive deity, are not likely to fade from the scene anytime soon.
Sabtu, 19 Mei 2012
The Perspective of Geese
During our travels along the spectacular coast of Lake Superior this week, we encountered a pair of Canada geese, ushering their brood across the unusually calm waters of the lake. West of the roadway was a pristine wetland, stretching out from the mouth of a rushing river; we naturally assumed that the pair had nested within that scenic marsh. Such encounters often make human envious of wildlife, recognizing both their freedom and their capacity to live in beautiful natural landscapes, unencumbered by the responsibilities of the human lifestyle.
On the following day, I saw another pair of geese with their young offspring, resting along a muddy pond in the industrial port of Superior, Wisconsin. Close to a wealth of pristine habitat, far more appealing to the human eye, they had chosen to nest along this unattractive pool, bordered by a litter-strewn lawn. Perhaps, once the goslings fledge, they will move on to a more pristine location but, for now, they appeared to be perfectly comfortable at their ugly urban site.
Unlike most humans, wild creatures focus primarily on their basic needs, not on the physical beauty of their surroundings. While they are far better equipped to wander off to spectacular landscapes that we can only hope to visit, they do not share our obsession with picturesque settings. Of course, neither do they worry about the effects that pollution might have on the welfare of their family; in that respect, they unknowingly depend on the wisdom and commitment of their human neighbors.
On the following day, I saw another pair of geese with their young offspring, resting along a muddy pond in the industrial port of Superior, Wisconsin. Close to a wealth of pristine habitat, far more appealing to the human eye, they had chosen to nest along this unattractive pool, bordered by a litter-strewn lawn. Perhaps, once the goslings fledge, they will move on to a more pristine location but, for now, they appeared to be perfectly comfortable at their ugly urban site.
Unlike most humans, wild creatures focus primarily on their basic needs, not on the physical beauty of their surroundings. While they are far better equipped to wander off to spectacular landscapes that we can only hope to visit, they do not share our obsession with picturesque settings. Of course, neither do they worry about the effects that pollution might have on the welfare of their family; in that respect, they unknowingly depend on the wisdom and commitment of their human neighbors.
Senin, 30 April 2012
Divisions of Hunting
To my knowledge, all States have a Division of Wildlife or a Department of Natural Resources, charged with protecting that State's native fauna and flora as well as cooperating with federal programs to manage wetlands for migrant waterfowl. Beyond their role in protecting open space, these State agencies also participate in the restoration of natural habitat and the reintroduction of once native species. In the course of doing so, they provide vital habitat for a wide range of plants and animals and extend the opportunity for many citizens to study and observe their wild neighbors.
Nevertheless, these Divisions and Departments are, to a large extent, funded by revenue from hunting licenses and their publications, while paying homage to a diversity of wildlife, tend to focus on hunting and fishing opportunities on the lands that they manage. Of course, one can be both a conservationist and a hunter and, unfortunately, hunting has become essential to the control of species such as white-tailed deer. We have, after all, eliminated the wild predators that once kept these populations in check.
Ideally, the reintroduction of native species would include an effort to balance predator and prey populations. However, U.S. Divisions of Wildlife have a long history of supporting the reintroduction of prey species while restricting or completely prohibiting the recovery of their natural predators; this policy appears to be a response to pressure from ranchers, who fear loss of their cattle or sheep, and a nod to hunters who relish the opportunity to control the herbivores themselves. Thus, State wildlife officials continue to reintroduce species such as moose and elk without bringing the wolves and cougars along; by doing so, they have become Divisions of Hunting, answerable primarily to those who fund their work.
Nevertheless, these Divisions and Departments are, to a large extent, funded by revenue from hunting licenses and their publications, while paying homage to a diversity of wildlife, tend to focus on hunting and fishing opportunities on the lands that they manage. Of course, one can be both a conservationist and a hunter and, unfortunately, hunting has become essential to the control of species such as white-tailed deer. We have, after all, eliminated the wild predators that once kept these populations in check.
Ideally, the reintroduction of native species would include an effort to balance predator and prey populations. However, U.S. Divisions of Wildlife have a long history of supporting the reintroduction of prey species while restricting or completely prohibiting the recovery of their natural predators; this policy appears to be a response to pressure from ranchers, who fear loss of their cattle or sheep, and a nod to hunters who relish the opportunity to control the herbivores themselves. Thus, State wildlife officials continue to reintroduce species such as moose and elk without bringing the wolves and cougars along; by doing so, they have become Divisions of Hunting, answerable primarily to those who fund their work.
Senin, 23 April 2012
The Nature of Dissent
Dissent is the fortitude to challenge established doctrine, whether formulated by governments, religious organizations, industry or other social groups. While the leaders of those organizations often view dissent as a threat to their power, it is essential to the development and maintenance of fair and effective policies.
Reasoned and rationale dissent insures that laws are established and imposed without discriminating among social groups, whether based on gender, income, race, culture, religion or other human traits. Though often dismissed as rebellious or unpatriotic, dissent is vital to any democratic system and governments or organizations that attempt to suppress or limit its expression will eventually suffer the consequences.
The steady advance of human knowledge has always been guided by dissent, a willingness to question assumptions that, in the end, proved to be inaccurate. Nevertheless, at each stage of human civilization, social pressure offered resistance to such change and those courageous enough to dissent were persecuted for their ideas. Today, modern society retains that resistance and, while some nations are more democratic than others, the struggle for human enlightenment continues. Reasoned, nonviolent dissent is the key to removing our shackles.
Reasoned and rationale dissent insures that laws are established and imposed without discriminating among social groups, whether based on gender, income, race, culture, religion or other human traits. Though often dismissed as rebellious or unpatriotic, dissent is vital to any democratic system and governments or organizations that attempt to suppress or limit its expression will eventually suffer the consequences.
The steady advance of human knowledge has always been guided by dissent, a willingness to question assumptions that, in the end, proved to be inaccurate. Nevertheless, at each stage of human civilization, social pressure offered resistance to such change and those courageous enough to dissent were persecuted for their ideas. Today, modern society retains that resistance and, while some nations are more democratic than others, the struggle for human enlightenment continues. Reasoned, nonviolent dissent is the key to removing our shackles.
Rabu, 18 April 2012
Warfare, Stress & Atrocities
Yet another story of U.S. military misbehavior in Afghanistan has surfaced today, at least the fourth revelation in the past year. Deplored by the Department of Defense, the Military Leadership and other Administration officials, the behavior was decried as an embarrassment to the United States and dismissed as not representative of the vast majority of American soldiers.
Of course, these reactions are expected and serve to assure the American public that such events are rare and that they undermine the goals of our vital mission. While many are shocked to learn of inhumane behavior by our troops, it is likely that these reports merely scratch the surface when it comes to the atrocities witnessed and/or performed by participants in human warfare. Enduring extreme stress, including the possibility of imminent death, it is understandable that soldiers lose touch with the personal boundaries that may have governed their civilian lives. To deny that humans are capable of such acts in the course of warfare is to close our eyes to the conditions under which they serve. It is only the brotherhood of soldiers that keeps us from learning about the majority of these incidents and it is generally through the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder that we catch a small glimpse of the mental anguish that war inflicts on the individual.
Rather than making an attempt to minimize the frequency or severity of the atrocities that occur in warfare, it is best that we publicly recognize both the immediate and long-term effects of combat on mental health and human behavior. The only effective means of eliminating these tragic events is to put an end to needless military intervention. The futility of our ongoing operations in Afghanistan has become clear to most Americans and, hopefully, will discourage similar engagements in the future. The deaths of so many young soldiers and innocent civilians, coupled with the life-long effects on those who survive, cannot justify what few benefits, if any, result from our nation-building crusade. Those who are the most vocal advocates of military intervention are generally those who never faced the extreme stress of warfare.
Of course, these reactions are expected and serve to assure the American public that such events are rare and that they undermine the goals of our vital mission. While many are shocked to learn of inhumane behavior by our troops, it is likely that these reports merely scratch the surface when it comes to the atrocities witnessed and/or performed by participants in human warfare. Enduring extreme stress, including the possibility of imminent death, it is understandable that soldiers lose touch with the personal boundaries that may have governed their civilian lives. To deny that humans are capable of such acts in the course of warfare is to close our eyes to the conditions under which they serve. It is only the brotherhood of soldiers that keeps us from learning about the majority of these incidents and it is generally through the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder that we catch a small glimpse of the mental anguish that war inflicts on the individual.
Rather than making an attempt to minimize the frequency or severity of the atrocities that occur in warfare, it is best that we publicly recognize both the immediate and long-term effects of combat on mental health and human behavior. The only effective means of eliminating these tragic events is to put an end to needless military intervention. The futility of our ongoing operations in Afghanistan has become clear to most Americans and, hopefully, will discourage similar engagements in the future. The deaths of so many young soldiers and innocent civilians, coupled with the life-long effects on those who survive, cannot justify what few benefits, if any, result from our nation-building crusade. Those who are the most vocal advocates of military intervention are generally those who never faced the extreme stress of warfare.
Minggu, 08 April 2012
Easter Awakening
By the spring of my 28th year, I was bored with the rituals of the Catholic Mass and had come to renounce the vindictive God of Western religions. So, on that Easter morning, I elected to forego a church service and paid a visit to our local arboretum. There, undistracted by public piety, I found solitude, natural beauty and quiet inspiration.
On that mild, sunny morning, I walked slowly through the forest, stopping on occasion to listen to the birds or to view the spring wildflowers. Approaching a secluded pond, I caught sight of a mother wood duck and her brood, gliding silently across the calm water. It was that encounter, thirty four years ago yet still clear in my memory, that set the stage for the naturalist philosopy that I have since adopted. Ever since that Easter morning at the arboretum, nature has been my church.
Beyond relishing the peace and inspiration offered by the natural world, I have come to despise the divisive force of organized religion, which, by its very nature, promotes discrimination and intolerance. On this annual celebration of rebirth, I am grateful for the Easter awakening that changed my life so many years ago.
On that mild, sunny morning, I walked slowly through the forest, stopping on occasion to listen to the birds or to view the spring wildflowers. Approaching a secluded pond, I caught sight of a mother wood duck and her brood, gliding silently across the calm water. It was that encounter, thirty four years ago yet still clear in my memory, that set the stage for the naturalist philosopy that I have since adopted. Ever since that Easter morning at the arboretum, nature has been my church.
Beyond relishing the peace and inspiration offered by the natural world, I have come to despise the divisive force of organized religion, which, by its very nature, promotes discrimination and intolerance. On this annual celebration of rebirth, I am grateful for the Easter awakening that changed my life so many years ago.
Sabtu, 10 Maret 2012
Visiting the Past
This coming week, my wife and I will visit our home State of Ohio to see relatives and, perhaps, a friend or two. Having lived in other parts of the country for most of our careers, we try to make the pilgrimage at least twice each year.
Of course, most of our old friends have since left Ohio and the urban landscapes have changed dramatically, including the demolition of past apartments and sentimental college hangouts. Nevertheless, driving through old neighborhoods or walking across modern versions of our campuses will remind us of those we left in the past, those who often surface in our memories and, of course, those who still haunt our souls.
There is a great deal of truth to the observation that you can't go home again. But you can still touch base with the landscape of your formative years and, by doing so, come to better understand the person that you have become. Living in the past, with its embellished joy and buried pain, can only produce regret and self-delusion but the past must be acknowledged and appreciated; after all, it has a profound effect on our present and will continue to influence our future.
Of course, most of our old friends have since left Ohio and the urban landscapes have changed dramatically, including the demolition of past apartments and sentimental college hangouts. Nevertheless, driving through old neighborhoods or walking across modern versions of our campuses will remind us of those we left in the past, those who often surface in our memories and, of course, those who still haunt our souls.
There is a great deal of truth to the observation that you can't go home again. But you can still touch base with the landscape of your formative years and, by doing so, come to better understand the person that you have become. Living in the past, with its embellished joy and buried pain, can only produce regret and self-delusion but the past must be acknowledged and appreciated; after all, it has a profound effect on our present and will continue to influence our future.
Jumat, 09 Maret 2012
Music of the Gods
While a minority of us enjoy a severe thunderstorm, the sound of distant thunder seems to comfort most humans. Like other universal emotional responses, I suspect that this reaction to thunder is inborn, buried in the collective soul of our species.
Though the distant rumble of thunder could be accepted as a warning, a signal to retreat from nature's fury, it also implies relief from the heat and the promise of rain for a parched earth. Considering the universal appeal of music, with its bass rhythm and percussion, early humans may have perceived thunder to be the music of the gods, a welcome sign of their providence.
For whatever reason, the sound of a thunderstorm has a soothing effect on most humans, yet more evidence that we are part of nature's domain; physically, mentally and emotionally attached to her web of life and death, we are ultimately dependent on her bounty, however fickle she may be in its delivery.
Though the distant rumble of thunder could be accepted as a warning, a signal to retreat from nature's fury, it also implies relief from the heat and the promise of rain for a parched earth. Considering the universal appeal of music, with its bass rhythm and percussion, early humans may have perceived thunder to be the music of the gods, a welcome sign of their providence.
For whatever reason, the sound of a thunderstorm has a soothing effect on most humans, yet more evidence that we are part of nature's domain; physically, mentally and emotionally attached to her web of life and death, we are ultimately dependent on her bounty, however fickle she may be in its delivery.
Senin, 05 Maret 2012
Education, Liberalism & Faith
Rick Santorum's proclamation that higher education indoctrinates students with godless, liberal ideology unleashed a political firestorm among Democrats, Independents and moderate Republicans; of course, his disrespectful style, labeling President Obama a snob, did not help his cause. Nevertheless, there is some truth to Santorum's message that he may not wish to acknowledge.
There is little doubt that education and religious faith have an inverse relationship, especially when one defines faith by the rigid dogma of most Western religions. Though some studies refute the fact that liberalism and agnosticism (or atheism) are more common in the college-educated population, I suspect that these associations do prevail in certain fields of study. As a physician, I know many medical professionals who remain devoted to their Church but the great majority do so with a liberalized view of social issues, including birth control; they and other social service professionals come to appreciate the complex nature of community health, having witnessed the effects of poverty and family dysfunction first hand. And, as a naturalist, academically trained in biology and medicine and self educated in geology and natural history, I'm confident that those persons highly trained in the natural sciences are far more likely to be agnostic or atheistic when compared to members of the general population.
Knowledge both improves our understanding of life's many mysteries and feeds our curiosity. The more we learn about any subject, the less likely we are to settle for simplistic, mystical and unproven theories of the laws that govern it; education broadens our perspective, enabling us to see the grays that exist between the blacks and whites on which religious conservatives tend to focus. Since religion evolved from a desire to define our place in the natural world, its rigid doctrines are least palatable to those who have an in-depth knowledge of the natural sciences.
There is little doubt that education and religious faith have an inverse relationship, especially when one defines faith by the rigid dogma of most Western religions. Though some studies refute the fact that liberalism and agnosticism (or atheism) are more common in the college-educated population, I suspect that these associations do prevail in certain fields of study. As a physician, I know many medical professionals who remain devoted to their Church but the great majority do so with a liberalized view of social issues, including birth control; they and other social service professionals come to appreciate the complex nature of community health, having witnessed the effects of poverty and family dysfunction first hand. And, as a naturalist, academically trained in biology and medicine and self educated in geology and natural history, I'm confident that those persons highly trained in the natural sciences are far more likely to be agnostic or atheistic when compared to members of the general population.
Knowledge both improves our understanding of life's many mysteries and feeds our curiosity. The more we learn about any subject, the less likely we are to settle for simplistic, mystical and unproven theories of the laws that govern it; education broadens our perspective, enabling us to see the grays that exist between the blacks and whites on which religious conservatives tend to focus. Since religion evolved from a desire to define our place in the natural world, its rigid doctrines are least palatable to those who have an in-depth knowledge of the natural sciences.
Minggu, 26 Februari 2012
Pleistocene Plant Revival
A recent article in the New York Times reported on the successful revival of a narrow-leafed campion from deposits of the late Pleistocene. Russian paleontologists had discovered seeds and fruits of the plant in river bed sediments of eastern Siberia, apparently buried by a ground squirrel; radiocarbon dating of the seeds indicated that they were first entombed about 32,000 years ago, when humans were displacing Neanderthals in Europe and Denisovans in eastern Asia.
While efforts to germinate the seeds were unsuccessful, the scientists were able to thaw and culture placental cells from the fruit, yielding mature plants that flowered and produced new seed; these descendent seeds were then planted to yield another generation of campions. According to the article, the Russian scientists speculate that the Pleistocene plant material was buried in soil just above the permafrost layer, favoring its prolonged viability; in addition, sugars and phenols within the plant tissue served as an antifreeze, protecting cellular structure.
Though this story focuses on what appears to be a record for ancient plant revival, it says more about the nature of life itself. Rather than some mystical or spiritual property, life is a physical process, requiring just the right biochemistry and environment in which to flourish. Governed by DNA and coordinated by neurovascular networks, the stem cells of life give rise to complete organisms and, as this event revealed, may do so after long periods of dormancy. We humans are just beginning to understand the potential benefits of this knowledge and, if not derailed by the forces of religious mysticism, stem cell research will play a major role in the future of agriculture and health care.
While efforts to germinate the seeds were unsuccessful, the scientists were able to thaw and culture placental cells from the fruit, yielding mature plants that flowered and produced new seed; these descendent seeds were then planted to yield another generation of campions. According to the article, the Russian scientists speculate that the Pleistocene plant material was buried in soil just above the permafrost layer, favoring its prolonged viability; in addition, sugars and phenols within the plant tissue served as an antifreeze, protecting cellular structure.
Though this story focuses on what appears to be a record for ancient plant revival, it says more about the nature of life itself. Rather than some mystical or spiritual property, life is a physical process, requiring just the right biochemistry and environment in which to flourish. Governed by DNA and coordinated by neurovascular networks, the stem cells of life give rise to complete organisms and, as this event revealed, may do so after long periods of dormancy. We humans are just beginning to understand the potential benefits of this knowledge and, if not derailed by the forces of religious mysticism, stem cell research will play a major role in the future of agriculture and health care.
Selasa, 14 Februari 2012
The Dark Side of Love
On this annual, commercialized tribute to love, it is appropriate to acknowledge that there is a dark side to this complex human emotion. As most of us come to learn, love is not always a two-way street and unrequited love is one of the more devastating of human experiences.
While the character of romantic love evolves through the course of a prolonged relationship, molded by the trials and tribulations of human intimacy and family responsibilities, the intensity of unrequited love endures, locked away in the safety of our mind. Cleansed of defects by the protective nature of human memory, its glory is sustained and embellished over the years and its loss can become a source of regret and self-indulgence, especially for those whose self-esteem is closely tied to relationships.
Welling up on certain dates or ignited by specific triggers such as songs, movies or places, this unrequited love can become an obsession, menacing our lives and, in some cases, leading to depression. While there is no cure for this human malady, love from another and, hopefully, a lasting romantic relationship, will help to place the original loss in proper perspective. As Don Henley advised in his hit single, it's all about forgiveness, for the love you lost and for yourself.
While the character of romantic love evolves through the course of a prolonged relationship, molded by the trials and tribulations of human intimacy and family responsibilities, the intensity of unrequited love endures, locked away in the safety of our mind. Cleansed of defects by the protective nature of human memory, its glory is sustained and embellished over the years and its loss can become a source of regret and self-indulgence, especially for those whose self-esteem is closely tied to relationships.
Welling up on certain dates or ignited by specific triggers such as songs, movies or places, this unrequited love can become an obsession, menacing our lives and, in some cases, leading to depression. While there is no cure for this human malady, love from another and, hopefully, a lasting romantic relationship, will help to place the original loss in proper perspective. As Don Henley advised in his hit single, it's all about forgiveness, for the love you lost and for yourself.
Minggu, 12 Februari 2012
The Human Swarm
In this era of social networking, facilitated by Facebook, Twitter and those ubiquitous smart phones, a large segment of our society has become a human swarm, communicating via emails, tweets, texting, instant messaging and online comments. Spurred on by friends, journalists, broadcasters, sports commentators and a host of media celebrities, many of us have become accustomed to sharing our lives and thoughts with the internet universe and, unfortunately, often rely on those connections to feed our self esteem.
While social networking surely has its advantages and while many participants are able to balance this activity with their family, educational and employment obligations, others seem to be obsessed with these communication technologies, putting their privacy and personal welfare at risk. Of course, as we often learn or experience firsthand, this obsession may lead to accidents and injuries, the result of constant distractions from the almighty cell phone. In addition, this devotion to group communication seems to encourage ritualistic group behavior, a phenomenon most evident at college sporting events.
This cultural trend imposes other risks and harmful effects as well. Solitude, creativity and personal independence are all victims of the human swarm, which places group participation and cooperation above individual freedom. Many argue that open communication and the expression of opinion foster social progress; while this may be true, I suggest that the demands of the swarm and the mining of data by those who control it may outweigh those benefits.
While social networking surely has its advantages and while many participants are able to balance this activity with their family, educational and employment obligations, others seem to be obsessed with these communication technologies, putting their privacy and personal welfare at risk. Of course, as we often learn or experience firsthand, this obsession may lead to accidents and injuries, the result of constant distractions from the almighty cell phone. In addition, this devotion to group communication seems to encourage ritualistic group behavior, a phenomenon most evident at college sporting events.
This cultural trend imposes other risks and harmful effects as well. Solitude, creativity and personal independence are all victims of the human swarm, which places group participation and cooperation above individual freedom. Many argue that open communication and the expression of opinion foster social progress; while this may be true, I suggest that the demands of the swarm and the mining of data by those who control it may outweigh those benefits.
Rabu, 01 Februari 2012
Nature & Government
While I am a social liberal, I am a fiscal conservative and I actually agree with many Republicans that our government is bloated and inefficient. I support simplification of the tax code, elimination of earmarks and enforcement of term limits. Unlike many conservatives, I also favor an end to corporate welfare and strongly support efforts to cut our outrageous defense budget.
On the other hand, history is replete with evidence that the federal government plays a crucial role in the protection of both civil rights and the health of our natural environment. Big business, driven by greed and focused on profits, has not demonstrated the capacity to protect either the consumer or the environment without oversight by federal agencies. From a naturalists point of view, governmental regulations have been vital to the welfare of natural ecosystems throughout this country and across the globe.
Too often, Americans jump on the bandwagon of anti-government rhetoric without giving proper consideration to the consequences. It is not until they are personally affected by mining disasters, oil spills, polluted water or tainted food that they recognize the need for federal mandates. If we let the corporate world run our environmental policy, we place the health of our citizens and that of our vital natural ecosystems at significant risk.
On the other hand, history is replete with evidence that the federal government plays a crucial role in the protection of both civil rights and the health of our natural environment. Big business, driven by greed and focused on profits, has not demonstrated the capacity to protect either the consumer or the environment without oversight by federal agencies. From a naturalists point of view, governmental regulations have been vital to the welfare of natural ecosystems throughout this country and across the globe.
Too often, Americans jump on the bandwagon of anti-government rhetoric without giving proper consideration to the consequences. It is not until they are personally affected by mining disasters, oil spills, polluted water or tainted food that they recognize the need for federal mandates. If we let the corporate world run our environmental policy, we place the health of our citizens and that of our vital natural ecosystems at significant risk.
Senin, 30 Januari 2012
Dividing Humanity
We have long become familiar with Christian colleges, Christian bookstores and, more recently, Christian dating services. Now, as advertised on TV last evening, there is a Christian insurance company that, according to their ad, only welcomes nonsmoking Christians. One wonders if they are willing to insure morbidly obese Christians; how about Christians who abuse alcohol or use injectable street drugs? Why not take a chance with Jewish tri-atheletes or Muslim vegetarians?
While they publicly espouse tolerance, religious organizations, zealously self-righteous, are among the most divisive forces in human society. If businesses can restrict access to members of one religion, why not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender or socioeconomic status?
Perhaps this company is just testing the waters, trying to determine how sensitive America might be to such policies. Perhaps they are blind to the sectarian strife that pervades many other nations across this globe. Or perhaps they are just simple-minded zealots who place their narrow-minded views above any concern for the welfare of human society. Regardless of their motivation, their message of intolerance must be challenged if our country is to uphold the freedoms that we so vigorously defend.
While they publicly espouse tolerance, religious organizations, zealously self-righteous, are among the most divisive forces in human society. If businesses can restrict access to members of one religion, why not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender or socioeconomic status?
Perhaps this company is just testing the waters, trying to determine how sensitive America might be to such policies. Perhaps they are blind to the sectarian strife that pervades many other nations across this globe. Or perhaps they are just simple-minded zealots who place their narrow-minded views above any concern for the welfare of human society. Regardless of their motivation, their message of intolerance must be challenged if our country is to uphold the freedoms that we so vigorously defend.
Sabtu, 28 Januari 2012
The Purpose of Life
Throughout human history, man has pondered the purpose and meaning of life. Endowed with a large brain, we have convinced ourselves that the ecosystems of planet Earth were created for our benefit and human cultures have imagined a wide range of gods that facilitate and govern that process. The fact that life evolved almost 3.6 billion years before our own species appeared is ignored or rejected by most religious persons; after all, they believe that this earth-bound life is preparation for a more significant, eternal existence.
If we strip away the cloud of human mysticism, we find that life has the single purpose of sustaining itself and has "learned" that diversification is the best means to accomplish that goal. In the words of that thoughtful scientist in the film Jurassic Park, "life will find a way."
Unfortunately, the mysticism of human society often impedes the purpose of life, as religious and sectarian wars decimate populations and as the culture of human superiority encourages the exploitation of our natural resources. If we truly support the purpose of life, we humans need to end our futile conflicts, devote ourselves to protecting the natural diversity of this planet and ensure that our own unbridled population growth does not threaten the sustainability of Earth's ecosystems.
If we strip away the cloud of human mysticism, we find that life has the single purpose of sustaining itself and has "learned" that diversification is the best means to accomplish that goal. In the words of that thoughtful scientist in the film Jurassic Park, "life will find a way."
Unfortunately, the mysticism of human society often impedes the purpose of life, as religious and sectarian wars decimate populations and as the culture of human superiority encourages the exploitation of our natural resources. If we truly support the purpose of life, we humans need to end our futile conflicts, devote ourselves to protecting the natural diversity of this planet and ensure that our own unbridled population growth does not threaten the sustainability of Earth's ecosystems.
Kamis, 26 Januari 2012
Mixing Oil & Wetlands
Since I drive a car and heat my home, it would be hypocritical of me to renounce oil production in the U.S. or elsewhere across the globe. Nevertheless, the oil industry has a tendency to minimize its potential impact on wetlands, the most productive ecosystems on our planet.
Sabine National Wildlife Refuge, in extreme southwest Louisiana, is the largest wetland preserve along the Gulf Coast, renowned for its large flocks of wintering waterfowl, its wide variety of wading birds and its resident population of American alligators and wetland mammals. Yet, oil production continues on this preserve despite a significant spill during the winter of 2002-2003 and the devastation of Hurricane Rita, in September, 2005, which spread more than 1400 barrels of toxic chemicals across the refuge. More recently, shortcuts in the startup of BP's Deepwater Horizon inundated coastal marshlands with crude oil, the worst man-made disaster in the history of the Gulf of Mexico. Now, despite concerns for potential damage to wetlands and groundwater across the unique sandhills ecosystem of western Nebraska, conservative politicians and their oil company supporters are attempting to push through the Keystone Pipeline Project before appropriate environmental studies are complete. And, of course, conservationists have been battling proposals to drill in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for decades.
While we cannot replace fossil fuels with "green" sources of energy overnight, it is equally short-sighted for the oil industry to minimize its impact on fragile and vital ecosystems across our planet. Oil and wetlands will not mix and we destroy those crucibles of life at our own peril.
Sabine National Wildlife Refuge, in extreme southwest Louisiana, is the largest wetland preserve along the Gulf Coast, renowned for its large flocks of wintering waterfowl, its wide variety of wading birds and its resident population of American alligators and wetland mammals. Yet, oil production continues on this preserve despite a significant spill during the winter of 2002-2003 and the devastation of Hurricane Rita, in September, 2005, which spread more than 1400 barrels of toxic chemicals across the refuge. More recently, shortcuts in the startup of BP's Deepwater Horizon inundated coastal marshlands with crude oil, the worst man-made disaster in the history of the Gulf of Mexico. Now, despite concerns for potential damage to wetlands and groundwater across the unique sandhills ecosystem of western Nebraska, conservative politicians and their oil company supporters are attempting to push through the Keystone Pipeline Project before appropriate environmental studies are complete. And, of course, conservationists have been battling proposals to drill in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for decades.
While we cannot replace fossil fuels with "green" sources of energy overnight, it is equally short-sighted for the oil industry to minimize its impact on fragile and vital ecosystems across our planet. Oil and wetlands will not mix and we destroy those crucibles of life at our own peril.
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