A unified systems model for evolution. Implications for human behaviour and survival

Abstract

Abstract

Here we present a systems-based and unified theory of evolution, more consistent with biological complexity than previous unified models, and addressing popular misconceptions about ‘survival of the fittest’ that have contributed to overcompetitive and overaggressive attitudes in our social and economic systems. These attitudes have played an important part in the global metacrisis of today. We show here how evolution not only of life on earth, but also of matter and energy ever since the Big Bang, shows common features. These features can be understood in terms of natural systems increasingly nesting into higher systems, with net increases in complexity, diversity and information over very long times, within the lineage leading to our present terrestrial biosphere. These increases were energized initially by the expansion of the universe and the resulting ongoing fall in temperature, and later on Earth by local energy from the sun and the planetary core. The relationship of every evolving system to its environment is also crucial in evolution. To date we know of no other life in the Universe, making our biosphere immeasurably rare and precious, yet its life is now in danger from human activity and ecological overshoot. While better understanding does not always lead to better decisions, still if some of those with power over our commercially oriented, global human social system (which we call the corposystem) can gain an appreciation of the unified working of evolution and the colossal complexity and interdependence of this planet’s living systems, on which we entirely depend, humanity and higher life on earth may have a better chance of surviving the current global crises.