Is it possible that extraterrestrial life forms exist within our Galaxy, the Milky Way? This book offers a critical analysis by leading experts in a range of sciences, of the plausibility that other intelligent lifeforms do exist. Exploration of the Solar System, and observations with telescopes that probe deep space, have come up empty handed in searches for evidence of extraterrestrial life. Many experts in the fields of astronomy, biology, chemistry and physics are now arguing that the evidence points to the conclusion that technological civilisations are rare. After ten billion years, and among hundreds of billions of stars, we may well possess the most advanced brains in the Milky Way Galaxy. This second edition contains many new and updated aspects of extraterrestrial research, especially the biological viewpoint of the question.

This Book Is A Result Of A Public Symposium On "Human Population And The Environmental Crisis" At UCLA In October 1993, Sponsored By The Center For The Study Of Evolution And The Origins Of Life (CSEOL). Each Chapter Focuses On A Different Aspect Of The Population-Environmental Problem. Because Of The Interdisciplinary Nature Of This Work, It Should Serve In A Variety Of College Courses Dealing With The Problems And Concerns Of World Over-Population And The Questions It Raises About The Environmental Consequences For Planet Earth.