Thoughtforms Life

This is a ~50 minute video on evolution from the perspective of diverse intelligence. I discuss 3 main things: the nature of the mapping between genotype and phenotype (an intelligent, problem-solving process that interprets genomic prompts, not simply a complex mechanical mapping), the implications for evolution of operating over such a multi-scale agential material, and a few recent findings about the origin of the intelligence spiral taking place before differential replication dynamics kick in.

Editing by https://x.com/DNAMediaEditing



CHAPTERS:

(00:00) Framing evolution and intelligence

(06:26) Morphogenesis as collective intelligence

(12:06) Regeneration and downward causation

(16:10) Bioelectric patterning and memory

(21:05) Reprogrammable adaptive anatomies

(26:06) Interpretation, plasticity and evolution

(31:58) Competent matter and evolvability

(35:45) Novel beings and emergence

(41:54) Prebiotic learning and agency

(46:43) Mind beyond life



PRODUCED BY:

https://aipodcast.ing



SOCIAL LINKS:

Podcast Website: https://thoughtforms-life.aipodcast.ing

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3pVafx6EZqXVI2V_Efu2uw

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thoughtforms-life/id1805908099

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7JCmtoeH53neYyZeOZ6ym5

Twitter: https://x.com/drmichaellevin

Blog: https://thoughtforms.life

The Levin Lab: https://drmichaellevin.org


What is Thoughtforms Life?

A podcast by Professor Michael Levin exploring the frontiers of biology, cognition, and emergence. Engage in conversations about morphogenesis, bioelectricity, and synthetic life — and uncover how intelligence and agency emerge from the most fundamental levels of nature.