Lives on Earth

bacteria

  • Finding Spirituality in Science

    I presented this lecture at the college and community Science Seminar at Raritan Valley Community College in New Jersey in January 2016. My thanks to Dr. Paul Scheuler, organizer of the series. The talk focuses on three questions about life… Continue reading

  • Most of Your Cells Aren’t Yours

    “All told, the [tiny] microbes in your body outnumber your own [much larger] cells by ten to one and can weigh as much as or more than your brain—about three pounds in an average adult. Each of us is thus… Continue reading

  • Feces as Medicine

    Yes, that’s right. They’re called fecal microbiota transplants–F.M.T.’s. A healthy person’s stool is mixed in an enema and transplanted to a patient’s rectum. The beneficial bacteria in such transplants are proving very effective in relieving two stubborn illnesses: ulcerative colitis… Continue reading

  • Bill Bryson’s A Short History of Nearly Everything

    Bill Bryson’s A Short History of Nearly Everything is an ideal read for those who are curious about science but shy away from the  details. Bryson’s signature style—humorous and friendly—is easy on the comprehension and even evocative in its imagery.… Continue reading

  • “Life is….”

    Is life fragile? Or is it tough, persistent?  And in such phrases, what do we mean by the word life ? People like to offer each other such phrases as “life is fragile” and “life is fleeting,” often after watching news… Continue reading

    “Life is….”