Mix in the fact that scientists have no real true understanding of how humans were formed-sure, we have abundant theories, but more questions than answers-and it makes it trickier to define life at a cellular or bacterial level. As Zimmer says, maybe these elements aren't alive, but "involved in the process of living." Then, that conversation moves into bacteria and other situations where parts of a living creature, whether a human or an insect, required a cell or bacteria but that cell or bacteria could not exist apart from the host. A red blood cell has no ability to be alive distinct from a human, so are red blood cells really alive? The discussion then diverts into a cellular level, with the two experts discussing red blood cells and how they are needed for humans to live, but can't live on their own. Resnick brings up NASA's definition: "Life is a self-sustaining chemical system capable of Darwinian evolution." That eliminates viruses, because they aren't self-sustaining. Of course, every definition that exists on life-and there are hundreds-leaves a wrinkle to be debated. Oops, New COVID Pill May Actually Mutate the Virus.
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