"Evolution and Intelligence: inversion and a positive feedback spiral" by Michael Levin

14/01/2026 49 min
"Evolution and Intelligence: inversion and a positive feedback spiral" by Michael Levin

Listen ""Evolution and Intelligence: inversion and a positive feedback spiral" by Michael Levin"

Episode Synopsis


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
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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

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