James Alexander writes:

> While I think the SETI project is fun, why don't we use our computing
power
> for something more constructive like Cancer Research?
...
> The web site to check out is http://www.parabon.com/cac.jsp

I'm absolutely all for the idea, but I'm not keen on the Parabon approach.

They note at

   http://www.ctrf.org/parabon.htm

(and, since the same engine is used, I assume this is true for all
of Parabon's partners):

  'Pioneer puts this unused power, or "idle time," to use running tasks
   for cancer researchers and Parabon's commercial clients. Not all of the
   tasks that run on your computer will be cancer related, but many will.'

Not even "most," but "many."  So "most" of the time, I'd be donating
free computing power for their commercial gain.

Until someone comes up with a better approach, I'll stick with SETI.
Just my opinion.

--Glenn

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