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A quantum model of exaptation: incorporating potentiality into evolutionary theory
Liane Gabora1, Eric O Scott, Stuart Kauffman
1Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, 3333 University Way, Kelowna, British Columbia V1V 1V7, Canada.
Progress in Biophysics and Molecular Biology
|April 10, 2013
Summary
We present a quantum framework to explain exaptation, where traits evolve for new functions. This model uses quantum mechanics to describe trait evolution, offering new insights into biological and cultural change.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary biology
- Quantum mechanics
- Mathematical biology
Background:
- Exaptation, where traits evolve for new functions, challenges classical mathematical models.
- Biological and cultural evolution exhibit complex adaptive processes.
- Classical (Kolmogorovian) frameworks struggle to capture the nuances of exaptation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel quantum framework for understanding exaptation.
- To model the co-option of traits for new adaptive functions.
- To explore the mathematical underpinnings of evolutionary change.
Main Methods:
- Representing trait states as superpositions in a Hilbert space.
- Utilizing self-adjoint operators to represent adaptive functions (observables).
- Defining basis states (trait forms) and eigenstates (adaptive functions).
Main Results:
- The quantum framework incorporates potentiality, contextuality, nonseparability, and emergence.
- Trait evolution is modeled as a quantum process.
- The framework provides a new lens for analyzing biological and cultural exaptation.
Conclusions:
- A quantum mechanical approach offers a powerful tool for studying exaptation.
- The model highlights the inherent complexity and context-dependency of evolutionary processes.
- Predictive limitations in evolutionary biology are consistent with this quantum framework.
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