Mark Vellend

Mark Vellend, a biology professor and author of *Everything Evolves*, dives into how evolution shapes all aspects of existence, from the tiniest microbes to massive societal structures. He introduces the concept of 'Second Science', blending evolutionary theory with physics to uncover universal patterns. Vellend discusses how evolutionary principles inform advances in AI and genetic engineering, and critiques the narrow focus on Darwinian narratives. With a sweeping examination of cultural and biological evolution, he presents an enlightening guide to understanding our world.

In this enlightening discussion, Mark Vellend, a biology professor and author, delves into the concept of evolution as a unifying principle across various domains. He explains how evolutionary dynamics shape everything from viruses to technology, emphasizing that both biology and culture evolve through similar processes. Vellend also explores historical influences on the idea of evolution that predate Darwin. He highlights the relevance of evolutionary principles in areas like AI and genetic engineering, showing how they inform our understanding of complex systems.

Mark Vellend, a biology professor and author of Everything Evolves, dives into how evolutionary principles shape everything from bacteria to technology. He discusses the intersection of physics and evolution, challenging the idea that Darwin's theories are the beginning of evolutionary thought. Vellend explains how even man-made technologies can evolve and explores the implications of artificial intelligence embracing evolutionary processes. He also touches on the significance of diversity, adaptation, and the impacts of global homogenization.