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YouTube

Are Viruses Alive? Exploring the Boundaries of Life

The Royal Institution via YouTube

Overview

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Explore the fascinating debate on whether viruses are living organisms or merely complex biological structures in this thought-provoking lecture by New York Times columnist Carl Zimmer. Delve into the boundaries of life, examining viruses and other enigmatic entities that challenge our understanding of what it means to be alive. Learn about the ongoing scientific discourse surrounding the definition of life and how viruses fit into this complex puzzle. Discover insights from Zimmer's book "Life's Edge: The Search for What It Means to Be Alive" as he presents compelling arguments and evidence from various scientific disciplines. Gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity of life and the challenges scientists face in categorizing and understanding the diverse forms of existence on our planet.

Syllabus

Are Viruses Alive? - with Carl Zimmer

Taught by

The Royal Institution

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