Space/Science — HabitableZone

Space/Science » in reply to We've done pretty good in 60 years what took evolution 4 billion years

I think it's actually 3 1/2 billion years but your point is made
Gary — (archived)

I believe(?) the Earth was formed 4 billion years ago but the first indications of biology happened 3 1/2 billion years ago. Assuming that evolution is a million times slower than devising a process through reason, Mother Nature had a lead over us of about 3500 years. Given that our technological civilization is a little over 3500 years old, it's not too surprising that we're starting to catch up with Mother Nature in some areas. This is one of the reasons why genetic engineering is so scary. Our DNA has about 3500 years worth of technology stored in it that will soon become available for immediate use. Are we smart (and ethical) enough to manage 3500 years worth of technology that suddenly falls into our laps? For example, the algortihm for our brain's operation is in our DNA. Reverse engineer that algorithmn and "Presto!", you'll have the basis for an artificially intelligent machine.

Gary

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