Episode #3

News Items

    Interview with Massimo Pigliucci

    • Dr. Pigliucci is an Associate Professor of Evolutionary Biology at SUNY-Stony Brook in LI. He has published 72 technical papers in evolution, botony. Written 7 books, 2 technical books (Phenotypic Evolution and Phenotypic Plasticity), and most recently Denying Evolution. Author of Column in Skeptical Inquirer magazine – Thinking about Science. Frequent contributor to Skeptical Inquirer, Skeptic, Free Inquiry, Philosophy Now and the Pholosopher’s magazine.

      • Doctorate in Genetics from University of Ferrarra
      • PhD in Botany from UCONN
      • PhD in Philosophy from University of Tennessee at Knoxville

      Dr. Pigliucci’s website: http://RationallySpeaking.org

    Science or Fiction

    • Item #1 Science

      Dolphins have been observed not only using tools, but also teaching tool use to their children. This is the first example of cultural tool use in a non-primate species.

    • Item #2 Fiction

      Astronomers have discovered an earth-like planet orbiting a nearby star, 50 light years from earth. This is the first earth-sized planet discovered around another star, and astronomers say there are indications that the planet has an atmosphere. This is the best candidate so far for extraterrestrial life.

    • Item #3 Science

      French scientists have discovered a way to keep water from freezing even at hundreds of degrees below zero – near absolute zero.

    Skeptical Quote of the Week.