Category: Science and Philosophy of Science

Comparative Genomics and the Boundaries of Molecular Rules

~ Fadel Fakih ~ Leave a comment

The evolution of life on Earth is a history of countless successes and failures. The variations arise through chance, but within physical, chemical, and biological organization and limitations. Natural selection acts on these variations, retaining forms that remain functionally viable, while many other variations persist through neutral evolution, shaped not by adaptive advantages but by … Continue reading Comparative Genomics and the Boundaries of Molecular Rules

Why evolution needs noise: in the light of QT45 ribozyme

~ Fadel Fakih ~ Leave a comment

A violet amethyst crystal, while beautiful on the outside, is a highly ordered structure at the microscopic level, and therefore cannot evolve. In contrast, a gas is highly random and cannot store any form of structure or information. Life sits right there in the middle, a highly structured and complex system with a tolerated degree … Continue reading Why evolution needs noise: in the light of QT45 ribozyme

Hands-On vs. Hands-Off: Finding the Right Approach in PhD Supervision

~ Fadel Fakih ~ Leave a comment

Supervising a PhD student is a weighty responsibility that plays a pivotal role in preparing and shaping the next generation of scholars and researchers. A PhD supervisor guides the student through their doctoral studies, ensuring that they are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to succeed in their future endeavors in academia. At … Continue reading Hands-On vs. Hands-Off: Finding the Right Approach in PhD Supervision

Science and Religion: Nothing is Objectively True

~ Fadel Fakih ~ Leave a comment

In the pursuit of truth, humanity has grappled with the problem in various ways, with science and religion emerging as two major approaches. The decision between them often hinges on seeking personal comfort rather than adhering to what is objectively true, delving into the intricate interplay between personal beliefs and cultural influences. When addressing existential … Continue reading Science and Religion: Nothing is Objectively True

The New Enlightenment: The Genomic Revolution

~ Fadel Fakih

The beginning of the 20th century was marked by remarkable advancements in physics. The theories of relativity and quantum mechanics revolutionized our understanding of the universe. However, in the 21st century, things have taken a different turn. We are currently experiencing the genomic revolution, with biologists at the forefront. Breakthroughs in this field have significantly … Continue reading The New Enlightenment: The Genomic Revolution