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Perfection is the enemy of evolution.

Adrian Bejan1

  • 1Duke University, Durham, NC, 27708-0300, USA.

Bio Systems
|May 6, 2023
PubMed
Summary

Evolutionary processes allow for a wide range of near-optimal designs, challenging the idea of single perfect solutions. Nature favors functional, adaptable forms over mathematically precise optima.

Area of Science:

  • Evolutionary biology
  • Complex systems
  • Biomechanics

Background:

  • Evolutionary change is a continuous process, contrasting with rigid mathematical optima.
  • Calculus and simulations often assume precise optimal states for systems.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the relationship between evolutionary design and mathematical optima.
  • To demonstrate the flexibility of evolutionary solutions using diverse examples.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of two distinct systems: area access (human settlement) and linear locomotion (animal movement).
  • Examination of performance variations and their proximity to theoretical optima.

Main Results:

  • Even minor imperfections (1%) allow for a broad range of successful designs.
Keywords:
AccessAnimal locomotionConstructalDiminishing returnsEvolutionFreedomPedestriansPerfection

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  • Evolutionary designs illustrate the principle of diminishing returns near mathematical optima.
  • Functional designs that 'work' are retained through evolutionary selection.

    • Conclusions:

    • Evolution does not necessarily converge on a single mathematical optimum.
    • Adaptability and a range of effective solutions are characteristic of evolutionary processes.
    • Understanding evolutionary physics reveals the limitations of precise optimization models.