Scientists Propose New Law of Nature, Expanding on Darwin’s Theory of Evolution
WASHINGTON, Oct 16 – In a groundbreaking study, a group of nine scientists and philosophers have proposed a new law of nature that goes beyond Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. Published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the study suggests that biological evolution is just one example of a much broader phenomenon that occurs on various scales, from atoms to stars.
The law, titled the “law of increasing functional information,” posits that complex natural systems evolve to states of greater patterning, diversity, and complexity. It argues that evolving systems, both biological and non-biological, form from numerous interacting building blocks and undergo selection for useful functions.
“The universe keeps getting more diverse and complex at scales of atoms, molecules, minerals, and more,” explained Robert Hazen, a co-author of the paper and a mineralogist and astrobiologist at the Carnegie Institution for Science.
The study draws parallels between the evolution of stars and living organisms on Earth. Hazen highlighted that stars, composed primarily of hydrogen and helium, forged heavier elements such as carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen through thermonuclear fusion. Similarly, on Earth, living organisms have acquired greater complexity over time.
The researchers propose three universal concepts of selection: the ability to endure, the enduring nature of active processes, and the emergence of novel characteristics as an adaptation to the environment. Examples of this “novelty generation” in biology include the development of swimming, walking, flying, and complex cognitive abilities.
The implications of this new law of nature are far-reaching. It provides a new perspective on the evolution of diverse systems in the cosmos and may allow predictions about the development of unfamiliar systems, such as the organic chemistry on Saturn’s moon Titan.
“This paper describes a view of the cosmos rooted in function,” said Michael Wong, lead author and astrobiologist at the Carnegie Institution. “It provides a new perspective on why the diverse systems that make up the cosmos evolve the way they do.”
The study opens the door to further exploration of the underlying principles that govern the evolution of the universe, shedding light on the intricate processes that shape our world.
Reporting by Will Dunham; Editing by Lisa Shumaker