6 people to 'start over'

When you were in elementary school were you ever assigned to groups to come up with a list of 6 people (and only 6) that would survive the apocalypse and start the human race over again? I was assigned that in Mr. Luce's 4th grade class and, surprisingly, in a college class nearly 15 years later.

For some reason its in my mind this morning on my way to work...

For my 6 people I would have a few 'prerequisites'. They have to be under 30, in good health with no family history of genetic abnormalities.


1. Woman under 25 with proven fertility

2. Woman under 25 with proven fertility

This is a no brainer - you need women to give birth to children to repopulate the earth.

If either of these women also process any of the qualities of the others, and so can count for 2 spots, the empty spot should be filled by another woman with proven fertility.

3. Person with agricultural science background

Preferably a professor of agricultural science who understands crops and growing food in all climates and understands water and how to get it from a variety of sources.

4. Person with mechanical and electrical engineering background

Mechanical more than electrical experience desired - to help rebuild societies buildings, bridges etc.

5. Person with army experience

Person with army experience and understanding of surviving under adverse conditions. This person will help create a sense of security through passive protection (not aggressive)

6. Person with medical background

Preferably with experience volunteering in 3rd world countries. Will help keep people well and train others to care for each other.


I think about this exercise a lot and my people almost always change... sometimes you want a porn star for levity, ya know?