“The Network of Life: A New View of Evolution” with Professor David Mindell

The Network of Life: A New View of Evolution on Bridging the Gaps

For a long time, the prevailing perspective on evolution has been that it follows a vertical pathway, where genetic information is passed down from one generation to the next in a linear fashion, resembling a “tree of life.” This classical view suggests that species evolve through a process of divergence from common ancestors, resulting in a branching tree structure that traces the lineage of life over time. In his new book “The Network of Life” Professor David Mindell emphasises the need to update this understanding, and explains that evolution functions more like a distributed, decentralised network. In this framework, there are possibilities for horizontal evolution, where genetic material is shared across species in a more fluid and interconnected manner. The book looks at the forces behind horizontal evolution, such as interbreeding, genetic recombination, merging of species, horizontal gene transfer, and coevolution. The network view of evolution leads to a new symbiotic theory of health. It suggests that the future well-being of humans, other species, and our environment relies on how life evolves and adapts within this interconnected web. In this episode of Bridging the Gaps I speak with Professor David Mindell.

Professor David Mindel is a senior researcher of Zoology at the University of California, Berkeley. He is a former professor of ecology and evolutionary biology at the University of Michigan, director of the University of Michigan Museum of Zoology, and Dean of Science at the California Academy of Sciences.

We begin our discussion by revisiting the traditional concept of vertical evolution, where life is represented as a branching tree. This model shows how species evolve through a series of splits, tracing their lineage back to common ancestors. We explore how this classical framework explains the development of species over time and then shift to discussing two core ideas in evolutionary theory: natural selection and genetic mutation. For much of history, evolution has been viewed primarily through the lens of vertical inheritance, which emphasises the transmission of traits from parent to offspring.

One reason for this focus on vertical evolution is that early evolutionary studies, including Darwin’s, were centred around natural selection, with limited knowledge about genetic mutations. At that time, the role of genetic mutations was not well understood. Today, we know they are essential drivers of evolution. We examine how this early gap in understanding may have shaped the preference for the vertical model of evolution and consider whether it limited perspectives on how species adapt over time.

Next, we delve into the concept of horizontal evolution, which presents a shift from the traditional view. In “The Network of Life”, Professor David Mindell explores evidence suggesting that horizontal evolution—where genes are shared across species—has been happening since life began on Earth. To set the stage, I ask him to outline what we currently know about the origins of life. We also discuss the intriguing role of viruses, which can transfer genetic material between species and influence evolutionary paths.

We then dive into the key discoveries that support and solidify the concept of horizontal evolution. Processes such as hybridization, species merging, and horizontal gene transfer provide strong evidence for this interconnected view of life. Mindell highlights the contributions of prominent scientists and pivotal studies that have reshaped our understanding of evolution.

If we update the current evolutionary framework to include horizontal evolution, what new questions might this approach help us answer? We discuss the significance of adopting this broader perspective and how it could refine our understanding of life’s history.

Finally, we explore the exciting possibilities that arise from this new understanding. By embracing the network view of evolution, we can enhance research on synthetic life, support assisted evolution to help species adapt to climate change, and revolutionise our approaches to biotechnology, medicine, and environmental sustainability. This has been an insightful and enriching conversation, shedding light on the profound impact of horizontal evolution on our world.

Complement this discussion with “Zero to Birth: How the Human Brain Is Built” with Professor William Harris and then listen to “The Exquisite Machine: The New Science of the Heart” with Professor Sian Harding

By |October 19th, 2024|Biology, Future, History, Knowledge, Podcasts, Research|
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“From Pessimism to Promise: Lessons from the Global South on Designing Inclusive Tech” with Professor Payal Arora

From Pessimism to Promise on Bridging the Gaps A Portal for Curious Minds

The news about emerging technologies often sounds alarming as well as discouraging. Headlines talk about how algorithms control and oppress people. There are fears that AI could harm democracy, damage our social connections, or even cause human extinction. While these fears come from real concerns, it’s also important to recognize the good that technology offers. For young people, tech can provide a unique space for self-growth. In her book “From Pessimism to Promise: Lessons from the Global South on Designing Inclusive Tech”, award-winning author professor Payal Arora shares a different perspective, especially outside the Western world, where most young people live. In these places, there’s a wave of optimism about technology, especially among marginalized groups. These users see hope in the possibilities that new tech brings. In this episode of Bridging the Gaps, I speak with professor Payal Arora.

Payal Arora is a digital anthropologist, consultant, TEDx speaker, and the award-winning author. She is a Professor of Inclusive AI Cultures at Utrecht University and is the cofounder of FemLab, a feminist initiative focused on the future of work.

We begin by exploring how emerging technologies are transforming education in the Global South in positive ways. These changes are not just reshaping traditional systems but also offering new opportunities that bring hope to more people and foster greater inclusivity. Next, we emphasize the importance of context when evaluating and discussing these new technologies. A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work; instead, the impact of technology can vary greatly depending on cultural, social, and economic circumstances. Take the example of privacy—what privacy means and how it is valued can shift dramatically when considered in different contexts. In some communities, privacy concerns might revolve around data security, while in others, it may be more about social visibility or personal safety. This makes it essential to examine technologies through a local lens.

We also delve into the concept of the Global South, both as a geographical term and as a mindset. While the Global South refers to countries typically in Latin America, Africa, Asia, and parts of the Middle East, it is also much more than just a place on the map. It represents a way of thinking and living, shaped by shared histories of colonialism, economic challenges, and rapid adaptation to global forces. It is a concept rich with multiple contexts, where resilience and innovation are key themes.

Finally, we explore the sense of hope and optimism that emerging technologies bring to the Global South. In these regions, technology is often seen not as a threat but as a tool for empowerment. People are embracing digital advancements with excitement, seeing them as opportunities to overcome obstacles and build a better future. This contagious optimism is fueled by the ability to leapfrog over outdated systems, creating new paths for social progress, economic growth, and personal empowerment.

Complement this discussion with “Kendall Square and the Making of a Global Innovation Hub” with Robert Buderi And then listen to “The Good-Enough Life” with Dr Avram Alpert.

By |October 3rd, 2024|Future, Knowledge, Social Science, Technology|
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“The Blind Spot: Why Science Cannot Ignore Human Experience” with Professor Adam Frank

The Blind Spot Reviewed on Bridging the Gaps

Since the Enlightenment, humanity has turned to science to answer profound questions about who we are, where we come from, and where we’re headed. However, we’ve become stuck in the belief that we can fully understand the universe by viewing it from a detached, external perspective. In focusing solely on external physical realities, imagined from this objective standpoint, we overlook the vital role of our own lived experience. This is the “Blind Spot” that astrophysicist Adam Frank, theoretical physicist Marcelo Gleiser, and philosopher Evan Thompson discuss in their book “The Blind Spot: Why Science Cannot Ignore Human Experience”. They identify this “Blind Spot” as the root of many modern scientific challenges —whether it’s in understanding time and the origin of the universe, quantum physics, the nature of life, artificial intelligence, consciousness, or Earth’s function as a planetary system. In this episode of Bridging the Gaps, I speak with astrophysicist Adam Frank.

Adam Frank is a renowned astrophysicist and professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Rochester. He is a leading expert on the final stages of stellar evolution, particularly for stars like the sun. At the University of Rochester, his computational research group has developed cutting-edge supercomputer tools to study the formation and death of stars. A passionate advocate for science, Frank describes himself as an “evangelist of science,” dedicated not only to uncovering the mysteries of the cosmos but also to sharing the beauty and power of science with the public. He is equally committed to exploring science’s broader role within culture, emphasising its relevance and context in our understanding of the world. His contributions to the field have earned him prestigious recognition, including the Carl Sagan Medal.

In this discussion we delve into why it is crucial to recognize this “Blind Spot” and the profound implications it has for how we approach science and knowledge. By focusing solely on external, objective facts, we miss a deeper understanding of reality—one that includes our subjective experience as an integral part of the equation. This Blind Spot has led to significant challenges in fields like quantum physics, cosmology, and the study of consciousness, where the limitations of purely objective observation become evident.

We also explore an alternative vision for science: that scientific knowledge should not be viewed as a fixed, immutable set of facts, but rather as a dynamic, evolving narrative. This narrative emerges from the constant interplay between the external world and our lived experience of it. In this view, science becomes a process of continuous self-correction, where both the observer and the observed are part of an evolving relationship. Frank stresses that recognizing this interplay allows us to break free from the illusion of absolute knowledge and opens up a more holistic, adaptive, and integrated way of understanding the universe. This shift in perspective has the potential to reshape how we approach not only scientific inquiry but also our relationship with reality itself. This has been an incredibly enlightening and deeply informative discussion, offering valuable insights and fresh perspective.

Complement this discussion with “The Joy of Science” with Professor Jim Al-Khalili and the listen to “Sharing Our Science: How to Write and Speak STEM” with Professor Brandon Brown

By |September 22nd, 2024|Future, Knowledge, Philosophy, Physics, Podcasts|
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