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Survival of the Systems.
Timothy M Lenton1, Timothy A Kohler2, Pablo A Marquet3
1Global Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Exeter, EX4 4QE, UK.
Trends in Ecology & Evolution
|January 8, 2021
Summary
Evolutionary thinking can expand beyond genes to include non-reproducing systems like ecosystems and societies. Natural selection based on differential persistence, driven by self-perpetuating feedback cycles, explains the survival of these complex systems.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary biology
- Ecology
- Sociology
Background:
- Traditional evolutionary theory focuses on individuals and genes.
- Selection acting on non-reproducing higher-level systems (ecosystems, societies) faces skepticism.
- Differential persistence offers a new perspective on the evolution of complex systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To reconsider the evolution of non-reproducing systems.
- To explore the role of differential persistence in natural selection.
- To understand system survival and failure in a changing world.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual framework based on differential persistence.
- Analysis of self-perpetuating feedback cycles (biotic and abiotic).
- Examination of molecular, ecological, and societal system examples.
Main Results:
- Natural selection can operate based on differential persistence.
- Self-perpetuating feedback cycles are crucial for system persistence.
- Principles apply to diverse systems, from molecular networks to economies.
Conclusions:
- Evolutionary principles extend to ecosystems and societies.
- Persistence-based selection provides insights into system resilience.
- Understanding feedback cycles is key to ecological and societal adaptation.
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