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posted 05. January 2004 08:27
Evolution of the Biosphere
by Sergei Doulatov
Abstract:Species are elements of ecosystems that are characterized by a particular structure-function duality. Each species possesses a set of attributes (phenotype) and a set of relationships with other species (role). The combined set of relationships between species defines a topological map of the biosphere. Isomorphic transformations on this map are referred to as variation, while non-isomorphic transformations that add or remove roles are referred to as speciation. Speciation is necessary because propagation of living processes is confined by discrete boundary conditions which conflict with the continuous nature of growth. An inevitable outcome of this is the generation of discontinuities in topological space that must be resolved for further expansion to occur. Evolution is thus directed by functional interrelationships in the biosphere, rather than an inherent design.
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[ 14. January 2004, 15:32: Message edited by: Moderator ]
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