Evolution and the Fate of Humankind

'Unite or Die,' a recipe for our climate crisis/endangered species.

Peter A. Corning (Author)

9781009613842, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 27 February 2025

64 pages
23.5 x 15.9 x 1.1 cm, 0.24 kg

In recent years we have come to understand better the forces that have shaped biological evolution over the course of time. Evolved purposiveness (teleonomy) in living systems themselves has been an important influence. Cooperative effects (synergies) of various kinds have also been influential. And the bioeconomics (functional costs and benefits) have been important constraints. Now we are facing a mounting survival crisis that may determine the future of life on Earth. We need to make a major course change, utilizing our insights into these important influences. Here is a review, and a 'prescription.'

Introduction
1. 'Life ascending'
2. Designers vs tinkerers in evolution
3. Teleonomy in evolution
4. Some ghosts in the machine
5. Teleonomy and natural selection
6. Lamarckian evolution
7. Behavior and evolution
8. Mind in evolution
9. The 'synergism hypothesis' revisited
10. Synergy and the bioeconomics of evolution
11. The evolution of humankind
12. 'Unite or die'
References.

Subject Areas: Physiological & neuro-psychology, biopsychology [JMM]