A new face in science

Today a group of French doctors announced that they have just performed the first ever partial-face transplant. The patient, whose face was disfigured by a dog bite, received a nose, a chin, and a mouth in the operation. What ethical questions will this raise in science and society? Should this operation be allowed?

Women in the draft

Currently, the Selective Service Act (more commonly known as the draft) is inactive. However, if it were to be active right now, women would not be included in the draft. Do you think women should be included in the draft? Is it okay for women to fight on the front lines?

Looking ahead: for better or worse

Pretend there is someone who knows what will happen to you from the next moment foward until your death. Say this person gave you a chance to know that information. Would you take the opportunity to learn your future? If you did, would you try to change it? Is it even possible to change it?

For all you writers

If you feel inclined to post your writing, please do so. I'd love to see what you have written! Please note whether you want it to be commented on or not.

Our choices or our destiny?

Some people believe in predestiny, others believe in free will and choosing our fates. Are we traveling along a path in life already chosen for us? Or are we constantly changing our future with every action we make?

Stars and wishes

If you were a star, what would you like wished upon you?

What's the word?

You guys can answer one, some, or all of these questions in your comment:

What is the most important word in the English language? Why?
What do you think was the first word ever said was? Who (or what) said it?
Do you think human beings are the only life in the universe that can communicate through words?
What is your favorite word to say? to hear? to read?
Is there power in a single word? Why or why not?

Beauty...

What does beauty mean to you? Do you see true beauty in yourself, other people, or other things? What makes someone or something beautiful?

Evolution vs. Intelligent Design

I heard today (11/9) that in Kansas the state board of education approved a change in the way evolution and intelligent design are taught in schools. The board recommended that teachers bring up the "considerable scientific and public controversy" surrounding the origin of life and evolution. Do you think this will place more emphasis on religion in schools or will it just improve the study of science? If it does place more emphasis on religion, is that beneficial or harmful for the students?