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The formal Darwinism project: a mid-term report.

¹Zoology Department, Oxford, UK. alan.grafen@sjc.ox.ac.uk

Journal of Evolutionary Biology

|June 23, 2007

Summary

This project formalizes fitness optimization in behavioral ecology by linking motion and optimization mathematics. It aims to unify evolutionary theories and resolve definitional issues in natural selection.

Area of Science:

Evolutionary biology
Mathematical biology
Behavioral ecology

Background:

Behavioral ecologists use fitness optimization, but its mathematical underpinnings require formalization.
Existing theoretical structures in evolutionary biology, such as inclusive fitness and Evolutionary Stable Strategy (ESS) theory, are often free-standing.
A 40-year-old misunderstanding persists regarding fitness optimization between mathematicians and biologists.

Purpose of the Study:

To formally underpin and rationalize fitness optimization concepts in behavioral ecology.
To unify disparate theoretical frameworks within evolutionary biology into a cohesive general theory.
To resolve ambiguities in defining biological fitness and advance the theory of neo-Darwinian natural selection.

Main Methods:

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Developing a novel argument that integrates the mathematics of motion with the mathematics of optimization.
Implementing key elements required for a generalized theory of natural selection.
Addressing and clarifying the historical misunderstanding of fitness optimization between disciplines.

Main Results:

Significant progress in formalizing fitness optimization, providing stronger support for current practices in behavioral ecology.
Identification of pathways to unify inclusive fitness theory, ESS theory, and bet-hedging theory.
Clarification of the definition of fitness and resolution of theoretical untidiness.

Conclusions:

The Formal Darwinism Project has laid substantial groundwork for a unified theory of natural selection.
Further development and integration of 'general time' are necessary for the final unified theory.
The project enhances theoretical clarity and practical application in evolutionary biology.