
#318 – Nick Lane: Origin of Life, Evolution, Aliens, Biology, and Consciousness
Lex Fridman Podcast
Evolution of Eyes and Perception
The evolution of eyes is a gradual process that can occur through small changes over time. It may take around half a million years to evolve an eye as we know it, showing that evolution does not require long periods. Once eyes evolve, they provide significant advantages in predator-prey relationships and understanding the environment. Organisms with single-celled structures like lenses and retinas show that complex visual structures can exist without a brain. The development of eyes drives the central nervous system to interpret sensory information, leading to a deep understanding of the environment and the need for appropriate reactions. The perception of reality through eyes is discussed, suggesting that our perception may differ from objective reality.