The replicative model of evolution: A general theory

Abstract

Formulation of a general model of evolution is presented which is based upon the recognition of the “biosocial” entity, that is the biosphere and human society, as a component‐system. It can be demonstrated that the interactions of the components (moleculas, cells, organisms, ecosystems in the biological realms and people, artifacts and ideas in the societies) have replicative organization. We suggest an explanation for the spontaneous emergence of replicative function and organization, a process called autogenesis. During autogenesis, hierarchical levels of replicative organization emerge and compartmentalization and convergence of replicative information occurs. Questions of the origin and evolution of life are discussed.

The replicative paradigm can also be applied to the processes of cultural evolution, in which complex replicative networks of people, ideas, and man‐made artifacts show all stages and phenomena of autogenesis. Finally, the present state of evolution of the whole global biosocial system is discussed.