“The DNA of wapiti deer as well as that of a woman was extracted from a Denisova Cave deer-tooth pendant.”
Harpers July 2023
This DNA could be from 300,000 to 50,000 thousands years old. Ponder that. DNA, as we all know it, can be grabbed from a cup or a glass or a straw to bust some murderer from the 1970s. But now, it can be grabbed from deeply in the past. And the present. Like, you getting up from your chair. There’s DNA – we can grab that.
People are all concerned about facial recognition. Which, now that I think about it, I am also concerned about. But your DNA is practically permanent – in the right circumstances. DNA describes who we are and why. And your’s and mine could be nabbed off something a hundred thousand years from now – or possibly way more.
I have no issue with this in any direction. I’d love to have my DNA looked at in 100,000 years by whoever that might be. And I’d be happy to help with any murder by spitting in a cup.
The point is, science is just so incredibly fascinating right now, I’m surprised Americans aren’t way more interested. It would take them away from their politics and grievances, as a start.
Luke Soiseth 