Monthly Archives: June 2009

Chattering chimpanzees

Posted on June 26, 2009 by Quentin

The difference between man and chimpanzee in genetic terms  is, as we know, very small – about 1.5 per cent. Yet the different outcome between the two species, which share a common ancestor, is very large. Investigating why is extremely … Continue reading →

Posted in Bio-ethics, Catholic Herald columns | 25 Comments

The unknown unknowns

Posted on June 18, 2009 by Quentin

We’ve all been working hard at serious subjects on Secondsight, so I thought we might have a little relaxation by way of a quiz – which has nothing in particular to do with faith, science or theology. Test yourself and … Continue reading →

Posted in Quentin queries | 2 Comments

Communities that communicate

Posted on June 11, 2009 by Quentin

At his inaugural Mass Archbishop Nichols spoke of faith building a community in which superficial differences are trumped by our unity in Christ. Certainly true, but I am always suspicious of the word “community” because it is easily said, and … Continue reading →

Posted in Catholic Herald columns, Church and Society | 5 Comments

Decision by emotion?

Posted on June 4, 2009 by Quentin

Just how much of our moral stance is influenced by emotional reaction? A study has recently been published in which elderly but mentally fit people were asked to consider what sort of care they would choose if they were to … Continue reading →

Posted in Moral judgment, Quentin queries | 8 Comments