Is Darwinian selection a retrograde driving force of evolution?

Area of Science:

• Evolutionary biology
• Origin of life studies
• Theoretical biology

Background:

• The increasing complexity of life over evolutionary history lacks a satisfactory empirical explanation in modern science.
• Existing definitions of biological complexity are not universally agreed upon.
• There is no theoretical basis or empirical evidence to suggest evolutionary lineages inherently increase in complexity over time.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the role of autocatalytic systems and genetic heredity in the early stages of life's evolution.
• To investigate the driving forces of evolution, particularly the function of Darwinian selection.
• To propose a new hypothesis on the directionality of evolutionary processes and its relation to complexity.

Main Methods:

• Formulation of a working definition for biological complexity.
• Hypothetical modeling of early evolution involving autocatalytic systems and genetic heredity.
• Analysis of the proposed retrograde driving force of Darwinian selection.
• Reconceptualization of Lamarckism through a 'complexification force' principle.

Main Results:

• Darwinian selection is hypothesized to predominantly act as a retrograde force, leading to a decrease in biological complexity.
• The proposed hypothesis suggests that evolution may naturally lead to degeneration rather than continuous complexification.
• The study offers a framework that integrates aspects of Darwinism and Lamarckism at the early stages of life.

Conclusions:

• The concept of increasing biological complexity over evolutionary time is challenged due to lack of definition and evidence.
• Darwinian selection may primarily drive a 'retrograde evolution,' reducing complexity.
• This perspective reconciles Darwinian and Lamarckian concepts by positing a 'complexification force' acting early in evolution.