The reading from Bennett and Shostak offers another
set of definitions:
Order --- Idea: Living organisms are
higher ordered conglomerations of molecules.
Problem: So are rocks.
Reproduction --- Idea: Living
organisms reproduce. Problem: Mules
don't, and viruses only reproduce with
the host's help. Problem with the problem:
Are viruses alive?
Growth and development --- Idea:
Living organisms grow and develop.
Problem: So can a fire.
Energy utilization --- Idea:
Living organisms produce energy
from fuel. Problem: So does a power plant.
Response to the environment ---
Idea: Living organisms respond to their
environments. Problem: So does
a mercury thermometer.
Evolutionary adaptation ---
Idea: Living organisms, over
many generations, gradually
change in response to environmental
challenges. Problem ...?