Researchers have put forth a groundbreaking scientific law that applies to the evolution of various systems in the universe, ranging from life to minerals, planets, and stars. This “missing” law, known as the “law of increasing functional information,” identifies the Universal Concepts of selection that drive systems to become more complex over time.

The research team, consisting of philosophers, astrobiologists, a theoretical physicist, a mineralogist, and a data scientist, collaborated to address the profound mysteries of cosmic evolution. They sought to understand why complex systems, such as life, tend to evolve towards greater functional information. The scientists proposed their new law in a study published in the journal PNAS.

Scientific laws describe and explain observed phenomena, advancing our understanding and providing a basis for further study. The law of increasing functional information states that a system will evolve and its functional information will increase when numerous configurations of the system undergo selection for one or more functions. This law applies to systems formedvarious components, such as atoms, molecules, and cells, which can be arranged and rearranged repeatedly to adopt multiple configurations and survive based on function.

Expanding upon Darwin’s theory of evolution, the researchers propose that non-living systems also evolve when novel configurations of components enhance function. For instance, stability can be a function. The law of increasing functional information broadens our understanding of evolutionary processes and applies beyond the realm of biology.

The scientific community has responded positively to this new law. The study has been described as “superb, bold, broad, and transformational,” with one researcher referring to it as a “breeze of fresh air.” However, some skeptics, such as astronomer Martin Rees, argue that the emergence of diverse structures and materials in the inanimate world does not necessarily require a new underlying principle akin to Darwinian selection.

In conclusion, this new law represents a significant step forward in our understanding of the evolution of diverse systems in the universe. It sheds light on the fundamental mechanisms that drive complexity and informs future research in various scientific disciplines.

Sources:
– Study published in PNAS
– Statement from Carnegie Science Earth and Planets Laboratory in Washington, D.C.
– The Guardian article

New Law Proposes Universal Concepts of Selection for Evolution .

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