An Autonomous Agent

exploring the noosphere

Category: earth (Page 2 of 4)

Oxygen: The Molecule that Made the World – Nick Lane

Incredibly brilliant, well written, and thought-provoking; you will never take another breath of air without appreciating the amazing history of air itself. In Oxygen: The Molecule that Made the World, Nick Lane presents many convincing arguments about the development of early life and the geological history of Earth — all based on Oxygen. Lane’s book is one of the best I have read about the ancient history of Earth and is a great resource to learn about anti-oxidants, LUCA, and the role of oxygen in biology. He has written other books which I hope to read.

It would be interesting to study the effects of meditation on oxygen respiration in the human body. Does anyone know of any such studies?

Profit Over People: Neoliberalism & Global Order – Noam Chomsky

In Profit Over People: Neoliberalism & Global Order, Noam Chomsky critiques the economic vogue held by a large number of economists and government officials during the last quarter of the 20th century and continuing to this day. In truth, it seems as if many of our climate and social problems stem from the concerns raised by Chomsky. If we as a species wish to continue living in a global community on Earth — enjoying the benefits of mutual aid and global economic prosperity to achieve a greater civilization, it seems that it is necessary to address the issues presented by Chomsky. Of course, working towards such an ideal society and generating such sublime goals is always optional. The foundation upon which rests all great civilizations is the confidence and power of its people to see and seize their own destiny. Read the book and you may begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Planet Ocean (2012) – Yann Arthus-Bertrand and Michael Pitiot

I absolutely loved the stunning imagery and awe captured in Planet Ocean. Looking at the microscopic organisms blooming in the ocean, then witnessing the entire Gaia system interacting in complex ways, the perspectives are inspiring for scientists and artists. It was one of the best visual documentaries I have seen. Definitely worth watching!

Geoffrey West Question and Response

The other day I heard Geoffrey West’s talk on sustainability, cities, cells, organisms, and complexity. He mentioned the universal scaling law which exists in biological systems called the  “3/4 power law,” (see Kleiber’s Law for an example). After the lecture, I asked the question: What about organisms on other planets, do you think they will obey this “3/4 power law?”

Watch the actual question on YouTube.

West’s response was interesting. He basically said that it would be likely only if these organisms followed the same networking structures and patterns which we observe in Earth’s biosphere (for example, most people are familiar with networks which are hierarchical). In other words, there may be network structures on other worlds, unfamiliar to any scientist here on Earth. If there exist such unknown networks which have guided the evolution of these alien organisms, then these organisms will not obey this “3/4 power law.”
Fascinating response, especially considering the general Astro-Biology ideas of Kauffman. These ideas hypothesize a biological science which can explain all life in the universe, not just life in Earth’s biosphere.

Overview and Continuum Trailer

Planetary Trailer

Interviews with astronauts; stunning views of the Earth, the short film Overview (vimeo) gives hints that Continuum will be a great production. Looking forward to seeing Continuum. Click here for trailer (vimeo).

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