Originally Posted by Antarctica!

"Well, that's the question!" Risu said, leaning against the wall next to the blackboard. "And it's a question I pose to you and everyone else in this class. With the specifics of the Drake equation figured out, I would like to ask you to discuss the value of it. As I commented earlier, the equation was first proposed as a way of making the search for alien life scientific. In your opinion, does this equation achieve this?

"Further, if you disagree, why? We've already mentioned a number of criticisms of the equation. The specific values for those factors are practically impossible to figure out accurately. The equation assumes that life on other planets is similar to life on Earth, and so on, needing water, an atmosphere... Are there any other reasons why the equation doesn't seem convincing to you?

"And, on the other hand, are there arguments against those criticisms? For example, isn't it a good idea to search for the kind of life we are familiar with first, since it gives us a possible starting point? Yes? No?" He shrugged. "What do you think?"