Chapter 7 - Evolution

Question 1

Evolution

Answer 1

Process which produces ever-greater holarchic depth, changes form of system

Question 2

Differentiation

Answer 2

First stage of evolution which creates increasing variety of holons of same depth, described by Darwin’s theory

Question 3

Integration and emergence

Answer 3

Second stage of evolution, where cooperative societies of holons at same level combine to form new and deeper holon. Once integration occurs, first stage is repeated at new level, but differentiation can still continue at lower levels

Question 4

Change

Answer 4

not all changes are evolutionary, many are simple reversible alterations or reversible adaptation

Question 5

The role of disturbances

Answer 5

Evolution depends on balance between creative urge of positive feedback and conservatism of negative feedback
Holons suppress disturbances when possible and change only out of necessity
Disturbances may come from within holon or environment

Question 6

Chance and necessity

Answer 6

Evolution is a process in which chance variations face necessity of survival

Question 7

Natural selection

Answer 7

Old and new organisms compete for survival, weeding out those less adapted to environment

Question 8

bifurcation point

Answer 8

when holon faces two or more possible futures

Question 9

Evolution and time

Answer 9

As evolution proceeds, holons become more efficient at using resources and performing functions
In theory it could work backwards, but doesn’t happen because of minute chance
Arrow of time towards ever-greater organization and complexity, opposite of entropy

Question 10

Punctuated equilibrium

Answer 10

Evolution appears to happen in fits and starts, rapid evolution
Result of many tiny changes rather than sudden jumps

Question 11

Stability, change and revolution

Answer 11

Frequent, small evolutionary changes may be replaced by rarer but larger revolutionary ones
Holon tested by large disturbances experience frequent but small evolutionary changes
Holon tested by small disturbances evolve less frequently and in larger jumps

Question 12

Purposefulness

Answer 12

Systems grow, develop, adapt, maintain, and actualize themselves. Evolve according to own dynamic purposes within broad constraints of environment producing ever greater diversity, complexity, and integration.
Reality is mysterious, purposeful, free, autonomous, creative, and cooperative