Taxi from Another Planet: Conversations with Drivers About Life in the Universe

Conversations with cab drivers lead to discussions about space exploration in this fun outing from astrobiologist Cockell (The Equations of Life). Inspired by a London cabbie who asked him if there are “alien taxi drivers,” Cockell uses the narrative device to answer big questions casually. (In this case answering with a look at how many things had to go just right on Earth for the two of them to have wound up in the cab). A driver in Waverly wonders whether space will be “full of tyrannies or free societies,” to which Cockell explains that since humans will need to implement institutions to foster survival, it’ll depend on what political systems people bring with them. A cabbie en route to Heathrow wonders, “Should we solve problems on Earth before exploring space?” which elicits the answer that it’s a good point, but “the science of climate change itself has been greatly enriched by the study of our planetary neighbors.” Indeed, Cockell fields questions regarding both space and life on Earth, wonderfully demonstrating how knowledge of the former can significantly enhance understanding of earthbound issues, and he does a great job blending cutting-edge science with philosophical considerations. This is a joy to read. (Aug.)