life in 553

One of the unresolved- and rather bitter- disputes in evolutionary biology is between the creeps and the jerks. The creeps (so dubbed by the jerks) think that evolutionary change is gradual. The jerks (so dubbed by the creeps) think it happens in sudden jumps that are separated by long period of statis.

Probably, both are true. Work done a couple of years ago by Mark Pagel of Reading University, in England, suggests that about a fifth of evolutionary change happens jerkily at around the time new species form. The rest creeps in gradually over the millennia.

- The Economist (2008). Volume 386, No. 8565, Page 88.

The greatest stumbling block in my belief in evolutionary biology is its inadequacy in explaining the great disparity of humans and animals. Even if evolutionary change were to proceed wholly by jerks (clearly not true) it cannot account for such immeasurable differences. One can defend evolution using simple calculations, for example, determining genetic identity, yet these mathematical representations are flawed because they are nothing more than monofactorial models. The nature of these models puts the finger on the problem – the only thing similar between us and animals is our genetic/biological make-up. No other species can speak of culture and civilization, consciousness and thought, philosophy and self-reflection, spirituality and religion, society, politics and war. The list is inexhaustible. Perhaps, animals display motivation and emotion (c.f. Jane Goodall’s work), yet none with the same intensity as we do.

Any child will be able to inherently sense that we are different from animals. Remember the days in primary school, when we all thought that the idea of humans being collectively lumped together with “animals” was laughable. Perhaps you even felt uncomfortable and insulted. Animals are driven by their biological needs and environment. Humans exert a great deal of control over these. Richard Dawkins himself would agree. I vaguely remembering him illustrating how we triumph over our genes in acts as simple as using contraceptives.

It is however, questionable whether he will agree with the biblical reference that humans have “dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth”.

It is difficult to get around these thoughts. They haphazardly pop into my head along my walks to the supermarket, in lectures, and even at this unearthly hour. It is unlikely for evolutionary science to answer these questions any time in the near future. I suppose the only two domains that can address these issues are Philosophy and Religion. I find the latter more appealing.

I spent the weekend in Rowardennan on the eastern shores of Loch Lomond. The weather was dreadful for most of the 2.5 days - rainy and misty. Nonetheless, the trip was enjoyable. Our Victorian chalet sits on the bank of Loch Lomond. This picture was taken during one of the fleeting moments of sunlight.

The weather cleared up a little on Sunday afternoon so we decided to venture out for a little walk but ended up getting hailed on for a good 10 minutes. Ouch /=

K, A, F, B and I went out for our first “posh” dinner in celebration of securing our lovely flat for the next academic year and our Semester 1 results. I will rate Khushi’s on Victoria Street, Edinburgh 3.5 out of 5 stars. The restaurant is spread over two levels, dimly lit by charming chandeliers and candles. We ordered Chicken Pakora, Samosa, Vegetable Biryani, Chicken Masala, Chicken Korma, Sag Paneer, Gohbi Alloo and a pitcher of Mango Lassi (menu here!)- The dishes could have tasted stronger with heavier Indian spices, nonetheless, they were all tasty. The dining experience could have been a bit more pleasant if the waiters had made an effort to make ordering food a less stressful affair. They were speaking English with the same speed as an Indian language, even I, someone who has lived in a country where 8.8% of the population is Indian, Singapore, found it difficult to understand them. What more the poor Scottish, Dutch and German girls! A little more patience guys!

Please do take the 3.5stars rating with a pinch of salt. I can’t help comparing Khushi’s with my favourite Indian restaurant back home - Tandoor located at the basement of the Holiday Inn (Parkview). If you are visiting Edinburgh, and have never had North Indian food before, or suspect that the one you had was not the best around, I’d say that a meal at Khushi’s is worth every £.

Also, if you want a cheaper alternative, try Red Fort on Drummond Street. If I am not mistaken, it costs £5.95 for a buffet lunch (probably less if you’re a student).

I hate being ill and woozy. Thankfully the weather was warmer today so I could ventilate my room - I can’t tolerate the lack of fresh air, especially when I am ill. I’m showing one sign of recovery though, an increased appetite. When I am ill, the most comforting meal I usually opt for is a bowl of warm porridge. At home, mom or D will usually cook fish porridge. Had to make do with a vegetables version which was equally nutritious.

Had a wonderful time eating and talking at L&L’s home in Dean Village, originally a milling village along the water of Leith with a well documented history dating back to 1128 . We took a little stroll after our very long lunch!