The science and pseudoscience of ‘’Jurassic Park” was discussed last week when paleontologist Jack Horner visited Orange County School of the Arts (OCSA) for an academic master class.
Horner’s visit was a part of OCSA’s new expansion of its Master Artist Series, which now features classes in both the arts and academic fields including math and science.
Students gathered in Symphony Hall during their science classes for an hour-long presentation on the possibility of bringing back the dinosaurs, Horner’s ongoing research and his experience as the science advisor for the “Jurassic Park” film franchise.
He began his career as a paleontologist in the 1970s, finding is first dinosaur, the Maiasaura, in 1973. His other discoveries include finding the first dinosaur eggs in the western hemisphere and uncovering evidence suggesting dinosaurs cared for their young. Currently, he teaches as a presidential fellow at Chapman University.
During the discussion, Horner gave students insight into the reality of resurrecting the dinosaurs, contrasting the methods depicted in “Jurassic Park.” Though it is not possible to reconstruct a species using only DNA, Horner said much of his current research delves into manipulating dormant genetic traits of birds to make them develop features similar to their prehistoric predecessors.
Through altering the RNA in chicken embryos, Horner and his fellow researchers have sought to lengthen birds’ necks and to give them tails, hands and teeth.
Though exciting, Horner said his research is not just for fun or to become a consultant on a blockbuster movie franchise. This science is important because it may make it possible to enhance genetics in other animals.
He highlighted how findings in this field of study not only allow the scientific community to better understand evolution, but to also enhance science that will help humankind overall.
“When we do these projects, it’s not to just create a dinosaur. It’s to look at science differently and to look at medicine differently. Everything we are doing is applicable to modern medicine,” Horner said.
Horner also talked about the differences between the dinosaurs in “Jurassic Park” and real dinosaurs. He said dinosaurs looked and sounded nothing like they did in the films and were actually brightly colored and feathered.
Following the scientific discussion, students were brimming with questions ranging from behind-the-scenes “Jurassic Park” trivia to the intricate knowledge behind his work in paleontology.
Horner expressed his admiration for the education OCSA provides its students and said the focus on the arts is what develops the innovators of the future.