The almost obvious case for a transcendental understanding of life

Explore (NY). 2011 Nov-Dec;7(6):363-8. doi: 10.1016/j.explore.2011.09.001.

Abstract

The follow-up to the Human Genome Project has found very little to connect variations in our DNA blueprints to some of our basic individual characteristics. This very surprising "missing heritability" problem, plus a number of existing underappreciated challenges to the DNA-based model, together are consistent with an underlying complementary transcendental contribution to life. Some of the behavioral challenges for DNA and the material-only model are quite suggestive of transcendental contributions. This possible overlap between an apparent hole in the scientific understanding of life and the common premodern transcendental perspective is introduced here.

MeSH terms

  • DNA*
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease / genetics*
  • Genome
  • Genome-Wide Association Study
  • Heredity*
  • Human Genome Project
  • Humans
  • Individuality*
  • Life*
  • Mind-Body Relations, Metaphysical*

Substances

  • DNA