255 | Michael Muthukrishna on Developing a Theory of Everyone
Sean Carroll's Mindscape: Science, Society, Philosophy, Culture, Arts, and Ideas
Energy Evolution and Human Progress
Throughout the evolution of life, the ability to harness energy has driven progress. From the early days of proto-photosynthesis to more efficient photosynthesis, the transition from sun energy to chemical energy in the form of ATP spurred the development of new niches and organisms. This energy evolution led to the rise of complex life forms and eventually to humans, who are like ecosystems with a diverse microbiome. The pattern of energy competition and cooperation is evident at every scale, with prokaryotes being eaten by eukaryotes, and complex life forms competing for energy resources. For humans, the unlocking of energy through fire and the agricultural revolution marked significant advancements, allowing for the growth of brains and adaptation to new niches.
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