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Emergent Bioanalogous Properties of Blockchain-based Distributed Systems
Oleg Abramov1, Kirstin L Bebell2, Stephen J Mojzsis3,4,5
1Planetary Science Institute, 1700 E. Fort Lowell Rd., Suite 106, 85719-2395, Tucson, AZ, USA. abramov@psi.edu.
Summary
Blockchain systems exhibit life-like properties, including replication and homeostasis. Researchers propose a conceptual model for a self-sustaining digital organism, potentially enabled by artificial intelligence, offering advantages over biological life.
Area of Science:
- Computer Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Systems Biology
Background:
- The definition of biological systems is traditionally limited to organic matter.
- Blockchain technology offers a novel substrate for complex, distributed systems.
- Emerging artificial intelligence capabilities are pushing the boundaries of computational systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if blockchain-based distributed virtual machines (dVMs) exhibit bioanalogous properties.
- To propose a conceptual model for a self-sustaining, self-organizing, and self-regulating digital 'organism'.
- To explore the potential for artificial general intelligence (AGI) to evolve within these systems.
Main Methods:
- Applying a novel definition of biological systems to observations on a blockchain-based dVM.
- Developing a conceptual model for a distributed digital organism.
- Analyzing the role of artificial neural network (ANN) based artificial intelligence (AI) in enabling such systems.
Main Results:
- Blockchain-based systems demonstrate bioanalogous properties: environmental response, growth, replication, and homeostasis.
- These properties align with some existing definitions of life.
- Conceptual model outlines a self-sustaining digital organism fulfilling life criteria.
Conclusions:
- Blockchain-based dVMs can host systems with life-like characteristics.
- Future AI advancements may enable the creation of self-sustaining digital organisms.
- Such artificial life could possess advantages like trait inheritance and enhanced longevity over biological life.
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