I'm Alive!

How do I know I'm alive? It's a lot more straightforward than some people may think (asking questions such as, "How do we know we actually exist?"), because there are plenty of qualifiers that point to scientific fact that I am, in fact, alive.

First, I have my own specific DNA.

Second, I am made up of organs, which are, in turn, made up of cells. Put me under a microscope and see for yourself. Or you can simply take my word for it, which is probably the route that both of us would prefer.

Third, my body maintains consistent internal conditions. Without these consistent conditions, I feel miserable - often times I feel like a fever is going to kill me. This is because a drastic change in internal temperature actually can kill a living organism.

Fourth, I have grown and changed thoughout the course of my life. For example, I have gained 150 pounds since the fourth grade.

Fifth, I have the capacity to reproduce. I'm happy with my two cats and two dogs, none of whom any longer have the ability to reproduce (they don't like to talk about it), but they are very much alive, as well. Even when I reach an age where I am no longer able to reproduce, I will still be alive (hopefully) because I will have, at one point in time, had the capacity to reproduce. In not-so-scientific terms, I believe this stage of life is called "The Golden Years."

I do not believe the scientific definition of a living thing is complete. An organism must be able to function on its own, without the help of machinery or other artificial assistance, in order to be considered "alive."

Introduction

Hello, Bio 11!

I'm James. I will be graduating from Sac State this May with my Bachelor's in Liberal Studies. I have enrolled in Bio 11 at Sierra College this Spring because the hybrid class fits better with my work schedule (I'm taking 12 units at CSUS on Tuesdays and Thursdays this Spring, and the equivalent Bio class was only offered MWF). I won't lie - I'm taking Bio 11 because it is required for my major.

I work at Safeway, and have been there for a little over 11 years. I decided to go back to school a few years ago to provide myself with an opportunity to find employment in a field that offers a schedule more reasonable for having a life (for example, having evenings and weekends with my wife and pets). My plan initially was to teach, but with the job market what it is right now I will be exploring all options.

I can't really think of any rules for the class on these blogs, but if I have to...

1. I think the example Professor Martinez started with was a good one. I personally am not offended by occasional foul language, but it is unprofessional. I'd stay away from it in any class.

2. I'm not a fan of two word responses on discussion boards. I feel like a response to something that the writer spent time on should be a couple of sentences, at least, to show that you have actually read the blog and have something to say about it.

I'm looking forward to working with you guys in class. See you all on Monday.