Links and Thinks 2021-12-13

1) Dan Graur searches for the origin of the term “junk DNA.”

We remember Charles Darwin, not because he discovered natural selection (and sexual selection) or because he was the first to propose that adaptive evolution is due to selection. Others, e.g., William Charles Wells, Patrick Matthew, James Cowles Prichard, William Lawrence, and John Sebright, may (or may not) have recognized evolution by natural selection long before him. It was Darwin, however, who staked his reputation on what was considered at the time a grave heresy. It is, of course, interesting that Hunt, Brenner, De Haller, Roberts and perhaps others toyed explicitly with the idea of “junk DNA” before 1972, not to mention others who may have entertained the same idea without calling it “junk.” However, it was Susumu Ohno who stuck his neck out and put his reputation on the line by advocating a very unpopular and contentious idea.

2) German euthanasia clinics refusing unvaccinated customers. This actually is not as silly as it sounds. In fact, it’s actually quite sensible.

Euthanasia and the preparatory examination of the voluntary responsibility of our members willing to die require human closeness. Human closeness, however, is a prerequisite and breeding ground for coronavirus transmission. As of today, the 2G rule applies in our association, supplemented by situation-related measures, such as quick tests before encounters in closed rooms.

3) Class Struggle, the Biggest Challenge to North Korea’s Economic Development – The Diplomat. Odd and incoherent piece – fundamentally misunderstands North Korea, trying to view the country through an international socialist lens.

4) Stone House on Jeju Island | Manta Comics. Korean-American photojournalist retires to Jeju-do and creates a comic book. Lovely. Looking forward to buying the print version.