We examine human self-destruction in relation to the knowledge of death, and transcendence (as discussed at the first session). Starting from “apoptosis”, a property of the cells, also called “programmed cell death”, we discuss self-destruction as a property not only of human, but also of other species, and even of the universe itself. Could self-destruction be a tool of the immune system of nature, helping it to survive?

Despite the decades long fear of the ultimate nuclear war, we humans, despite our vices and our self-destructing nature, managed to avoid it. How did reason prevail during the Cold War era? What was the role of the scientists? What was the “design of deterrence”?

Scientists foretell the death of our planet. The most possible and terminating reasons for the end are beyond the human progress. But still, the human factor can be greatly catalytic towards a possible planet destruction. Does it make sense, though, to accuse ourselves for the upcoming death of Earth? Is it possible that humans are the only means our planet has to survive?

Participants :

Stathis Gonos
Biologist Biochemist. Director, Institute of Biological Studies & Biotechnology, Hellenic National Research Foundation.

Andreas Theophilou
Theoretical Physicist. Research Director, Hellenic National Center of Scientific Research Demokritos.

Dennis Razis
MD, Oncologist. President of Delphi Society.

Moderator :

Constantinos Sekeris
Biologist Biochemist. Director Emeritus, Institute of Biological Studies & Biotechnology, Hellenic National Research Foundation.