Top science fiction writer and Very Nice Chap Ken MacLeod will be discussing representations of evolution in advanced, modern computer games (such as Spore or online communities like Second Life) – how life-like are the lifeforms depicted in these games and do they have any real relevance to the actual world of biological evolution and if so, can they provide new insights into this fascinating topic? The Skinny magazine and the ESRC Genomics Policy and Research Forum will be hosting a discussion with Ken and synthetic biologist Dr Alistair Elfick on Saturday 7th of February at 7pm in the Drill Hall, 30-38 Dalmeny Street (off Leith Walk – follow the holes made by the tram works), Edinburgh. The event is free but space is limited so you have to get a ticket – call 0131 467 4630 or email evolution@theskinny.co.uk for your free tickets.
Quite a fascinating subject for the year in which there are many events celebrating the 200th anniversary of the birth of Darwin (’intelligent design’ believers may wish to look away at this point), I’d think. In a related field Ken’s blog also directs those interested in evolutionary science to a discussion at the National Library of Scotland (George IV Bridge, Edinburgh) on February 11th at 6.30pm which will explore the topic “should schools teach Creatonism?” As I’ve mentioned here before, Ken’s last book The Night Sessions (now shortlisted for this year’s BSFA Awards) includes a fascinating take on Creatonism, fundamentalist religion, technology and artificial life, tied up in a very neat, near-future, Edinburgh-set police thriller.
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