Chapter 6: Intelligence (Genome)

•A group of scientists discovered a gene that may be linked to intelligence • The gene is located on chromosome 6 • The discovery has been met with skepticism by many • To be able to measure such a slippery thing (like intelligence) in half an hour (IQ test) seems absurd. • Indeed, the early … Read more

Chapter 5: Environment (Genome)

In chapter 5 of Matt Ridley’s “Genome,” the author delves into the topic of how genetics and environment interact to shape an individual’s traits and characteristics. Ridley begins by acknowledging that while genetics plays a major role in determining an individual’s traits, environmental factors can also have a significant impact. He uses the example of … Read more

Chapter 4: Fate (Genome)

In chapter 4 of Matt Ridley’s “Genome,” he discusses the concept of genetic privacy and the implications of the rapidly advancing field of genetics. He begins by discussing the Human Genome Project, which aimed to map the entire human genome, and the potential benefits it could bring such as personalized medicine and genetic testing. However, … Read more

Chapter 3: History (Genome)

In chapter 3 of Matt Ridley’s “Genome,” he delves into the history of human evolution and how it can be understood through the lens of genetics. He begins by discussing the trend of increasing brain size in animals over time, and how this is related to the development of larger, multicellular bodies during the Cambrian … Read more

Chapter 2: Species (Genome)

Ridley states that in 1955 it was agreed that human beings had twenty-four pairs of chromosomes. This was considered a fact because in 1921 a scientist named Theophilus Painter had sliced thin sections off the testicles of three castrated men and examined them under a microscope, arriving at the figure of twenty-four. This number was … Read more

Chapter 1: Life (Genome)

The word is described as proselytizing the sea, rearranging chemicals to create life, and transforming the planet into a verdant paradise. The author also notes the significance of being alive at this point in Earth’s history and the privilege of being born as a human being and in the country where the structure of DNA … Read more

Real Magic Summary (7/10)

In his book, Real Magic, Dean Radin explores the scientific evidence for paranormal phenomena. He argues that not only do these phenomena exist, but that they can be studied using the same rigorous scientific methods used to study other phenomena. Radin dives deep into the research behind such topics as telepathy, precognition, and psychokinesis in … Read more

The Study of Non-Hallucinogenic Psychoplastogens

Non-hallucinogenic psychoplastogens, also known as psychedelics, have been the subject of extensive research in recent years. These substances have been found to have a wide range of therapeutic benefits, including the treatment of depression, anxiety, and PTSD. One of the most well-known non-hallucinogenic psychoplastogens is psilocybin, which is found in certain species of mushrooms. Research … Read more

The Philosophy of Nietzsche: An Introduction

Nietzsche was a 19th century German philosopher who is known for his critiques of traditional morality and religion. He believed that traditional morality, which is based on concepts of good and evil, is limiting and restrictive to human potential. Instead, Nietzsche proposed a new morality based on the concept of the “superman,” or the “Übermensch.” … Read more