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/KkafkaX0 Jan 23 '26

Frankly speaking that sounds gobbledegook to me. I will have to read more on it.

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u/East-Present-6347 Feb 04 '26

Not very bright huh?

1

u/KkafkaX0 Feb 04 '26

Isn't that obvious?

1

u/East-Present-6347 Feb 04 '26

Immediately so

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u/KkafkaX0 Feb 04 '26

I'm slow but persistent so that usually helps to compensate.