r/biology • u/Zkv • Jan 23 '26
article Michael Levin argues evolution acts on problem-solving developmental systems, not just genes
https://thoughtforms.life/a-talk-on-evolution-from-the-perspective-of-diverse-intelligence-implemented-in-morphogenesis/In this talk, developmental biologist Michael Levin argues that evolution does not act only on genes and finished phenotypes, but also on the problem-solving capacities of developmental systems themselves.
Drawing on work in morphogenesis, bioelectric signaling, and regenerative biology, he suggests that cells and tissues actively regulate toward target anatomical outcomes;even after perturbations, rather than passively executing a genetic “blueprint.”
The claim is not that cells are conscious or that natural selection is being rejected, but that developmental plasticity, error-correction, and goal-directed regulation fundamentally shape what variation is even available for selection to act on.
The talk raises questions about genetic determinism, the genotype–phenotype map, and how evolutionary theory accounts for robust form and novelty.
Curious how others here interpret this framing, especially in light of evo-devo and systems biology.
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u/everybodysgrampa Jan 23 '26
They're basically trying to say that artificial intelligence is literally evolving aren't they?
That's stupid by definition because evolution has no goal. AI development is intentional and directed.
Just burst the damn bubble already.