More Conscious Thoughts on Crick

Your story on Francis H.C. Crick and his work in yet another challenging area of science was thought-provoking (“Francis Crick’s Quest,” by Michael A. Hiltzik, Nov. 17). He has certainly contributed much to the field of science over the years. It’s great that he still has so much passion for his work. Having worked in the field of science (microbiology and biochemistry), I’m cheering for him and his team.

However, one consideration is that after all of the evidence has been established on consciousness, we still might be surprised to find a metaphysical or spiritual dimension interwoven into the physical aspect. The spiritual definition might be what completes the definition of consciousness. As Crick suggests, consciousness is different and complex: “There are lots of bits of business to explain.”

George Tharrington

Yorba Linda

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I am disappointed that you would state that consciousness “separates humankind from animals and machines” as if this were an established scientific fact. The lie that nonhuman animals are mere automatons that act only from instinct has been promulgated for thousands of years. In fact, humans are animals, and other highly evolved animals think, learn and have likes, dislikes and friends. They feel affection, frustration, boredom, loneliness, annoyance, fear and enjoyment. They are persons in that they have personalities. They love, suffer and mourn.

I hope that more and more people will take off their blinders and realize that animals are much more like us than society has been willing to admit. Consciousness doesn’t separate humans from animals; it links us. When sincere and compassionate people face this truth, we make the necessary adjustments in our lives. Our consciences allow us to do no less.

Stephanie Bennett

Northridge