Millions of dollars have been spent in New Zealand saving the Kakapo, a flightless, burrowing, nocturnal parrot. Now an Australian professor has caused upset by suggesting that the creature's extinction is unavoidable, as its population has dwindled to a level where any chance event could wipe it out. What is interesting is the response to the Prof's opinion. Those in charge of conservation seem to take it for granted that extinction is a) unnatural b) disastrous and c) harmful to humanity.
There is nothing more natural than extinction; it is the driving force behind evolution. Species, like individuals, are mortal. Most of the animals we treasure today exist because the species that were their rivals have died out. The Kakapo contributes nothing to nature that cannot be duplicated by other, more vigorous life forms. Let it go gently.
According to the Mail, a third of job vacancies are being filled by over 65s. This, says the mail, is because they cannot afford to retire, or to manage on their pensions. Fair enough; but what is the motivation for the companies who hire them? Surely younger people would be be more energetic, and have years more usefulness ahead of them.
Can it be that the older people are more literate and numerate than the young? I wouldn't be surprised.
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