‘Each year a forum for the world’s most brilliant minds asks one question. This year’s drew responses from such names as Richard Dawkins, Ian McEwan and Alan Alda. Here, edge.org founder John Brockman explains how the question came into being and we pick some of the best responses…’ (The Observer) I don’t know why this kicker focused on the likes of Alan Alda and McEwan. The responses of the cutting-edge scientists are the most compelling.