A reassessment of the “hard-steps” model for the evolution of intelligent life Publication

Science Advances (Publisher)

Abstract: According to the “hard-steps” model, the origin of humanity required “successful passage through a number of intermediate steps” (so-called “hard steps”) that were intrinsically improbable in the time available for biological evolution on Earth. This model similarly predicts that technological life analogous to human life on Earth is “exceedingly rare” in the Universe. Here, we critically reevaluate core assumptions of the hard-steps model through the lens of historical geobiology. Specifically, we propose an alternative model where there are no hard steps, and evolutionary singularities required for human origins can be explained via …

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Sexuality and Gender Publication

Lawrence S. Mayer (Author) & Paul R McHugh (Author) & Center for the Study of Technology and Society (Publisher)

The "Sexuality and Gender" report, published by the Center for the Study of Technology and Society, aims to provide a comprehensive overview of current scientific research related to sexual orientation and gender identity.

The report draws on findings from various disciplines, including biology, psychology, and social sciences. It examines a wide range of topics, delving into the biological, environmental, and hormonal factors that influence sexuality and gender identity. Additionally, it explores the connection between brain structure and function and sexual orientation.

A significant portion of the report focuses on health outcomes associated with sexual orientation and gender identity. It highlights …

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Study of the Therapeutic Effects of Proximal Intercessory Prayer (STEPP) on Auditory and Visual Impairments in Rural Mozambique Publication

Southern Medical Association (Publisher)

This study by the Southern Medical Association investigated the potential therapeutic effects of proximal intercessory prayer (PIP) on hearing and vision impairments in rural Mozambique. PIP differs from distant intercessory prayer (DIP) in that the prayers are offered in the physical presence of the recipient. The researchers measured the hearing and vision of 24 participants (19 males, 5 females) before and after receiving PIP interventions.

The study found statistically significant improvements in both auditory and visual function following PIP. Hearing thresholds, measured at 3 kHz, showed significant improvement across the entire group. Similarly, binocular visual acuity increased significantly as well. …

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