Probability

For or against Biogenesis?

We do not understand even the general features of the origin of the genetic code . . . The origin of the genetic code is the most baffling aspect of the problem of the origins of life and a major conceptual or experimental breakthrough may be needed before we can make any substantial progress (New Scientist, April 15, 1982 p. 151) TD>

The tactic is to argue that although the chance of arriving at the biochemical system of life as we know it is admitted to be utterly miniscule, there is in Nature such an enormous number of other chemical systems which could also support that any old planet like the earth would inevitably arrive sooner or later at one or another of them
This argument is the veriest nonsense, and if it is to be imbibed at all it must be swallowed with a jorum of strong ale.