New Books in Science, Technology, and Society cover image

Carl Zimmer, "Life's Edge: The Search For What it Means to be Alive" (Dutton, 2022)

New Books in Science, Technology, and Society

CHAPTER

The Evolution of Life: From Earth to the Cosmos

This chapter traces the scientific advancements in understanding life from the 19th to the 20th century, spotlighting pivotal discoveries like cells and DNA and their impact on defining life on Earth and exploring life beyond our planet. It delves into the challenges of identifying and potentially encountering alien life forms, addressing risks, uncertainties, and the search for intelligent life in the universe. The chapter also discusses resilient microbes in extreme environments on Earth, their adaptability, and the ongoing exploration of diverse microscopic life forms, culminating in a reflection on the complexities of defining life and the quest for a unifying theory.

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