Things Debatable

Scientists search for mysterious Ghost Particles

Scientific research involves clear steps, beginning with theories (possible explanations), followed by experiments which will support or disprove the theories. As more scientists get involved in tackling complex expensive problems, we need rules to distinguish between Science and Science Fiction. This BBC Science article, March 24, 2024 is a good candidate for Sci-Fi.

New scientific findings hinting that early Earth was completely covered in water

Scientists are still struggling to figure out how and why Earth is the only known planet to have so much water. A new theory (March 2020) is providing evidence that water completely covered Early earth. Since water is one of the critical components supporting life, this problem has serious Philosophical and Religious implications.

Does having a brain, automatically result in consciousness?

Scientists are grappling with the topic of Consciousness (as well as Intelligence - Real and Artificial). This Economist, June 28, 2023 article lists the many competing theories which prove one thing - we are a long way from understanding this complex problem. Furthermore, by extending the concept to thousands of animal species, they may be over-complicating the problem.

The Anthropocene epoch could (and should?) be short-lived.

Anthropocentrism treats mankind as the central or most important element of existence, especially as opposed to God or other animals. The Anthropocene epoch, as described in this Economist, July 13, 2023 article says that this dramatic change began as far back as 1950. It also speculates that this period could be nasty, brutish and short.

It's not your Genes, stupid; it's your Relationships....

The Harvard Gazette, April 11, 2017 described research seeking clues to leading healthy and happy lives. The results showed that how happy we are in our relationships has a powerful influence on our health. Close relationships, more than money or fame or social class, IQ, or even genes, are what keep people happy throughout their lives.

Catholic women fighting to be Priests

We all hope that the winds of change would blow like gentle breezes, but in the 21st century all changes seem to be more like hurricanes, tornadoes and wild fires. The Catholic church is dealing with its own turbulence and may finally be willing to pay attention to the women who are risking excommunication in order to serve as priests. This Dec. 13, 2022 BBC article provides details.

Unhappiness is soaring around the world - even before the Pandemic

In this June 17, 2022 Economist article, the head of Gallop polling, Jon Clifton, provides sobering evidence that the world is becoming increasingly unhappy. He provides 5 reasons, and comes to this conclusion:
"If politicians want to curb global unhappiness, they can start by monitoring systematically how people feel.... Ignorance of misery is not bliss."

How did Water get on Earth?

Scientists are still struggling with this problem while others are comfortable treating this "miracle" as proof of their Religious beliefs. The treatment of this highly debatable topic How did Water get on Earth? justified personal comments and critiques by the editor who continues to blend Science with Religion.

Asleep, perchance they Dreamed. Then they Awoke to face the "Woke".

Wikipedia is always the first place to check for a detailed and reliable explanation of complex issues. Their description of "Woke" and how the Woke Culture evolved and is being used everywhere to address "Global Discontent", is a must-read.

Political Theorists have been worrying about Mob Rule for 2,000 years

An excellent Historical article by the Economist on Jan 16, 2021. It was triggered by the Jan 6 Capitol riots. It discusses how Democracy, if unchecked, could morph into Mob Rule.

Measuring Global Temperatures: Satellites or Thermometers?

Global warming trends are based mostly upon measurements made by surface thermometers. This ignores the other two primary ways of measuring global air temperatures - satellites and radiosondes (weather balloons). This January 26, 2016 article by Dr. Roy Spencer, provides a more balanced view of this issue.

Cryptocurrency vs Global Warming

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The Big Bang - Real or Fake Science?

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