Evolution and the Fate of Humankind

'Unite or Die,' a recipe for our climate crisis/endangered species.

In recent years we have come to understand better the forces that have shaped biological evolution over the course of time, such as evolved purposiveness, cooperative effects, and bioeconomics. Now we are facing a mounting survival crisis that may determine the future of life on Earth. This Element highlights the need to make a major course change.In recent years we have come to understand better the forces that have shaped biological evolution over the course of time. Evolved purposiveness (teleonomy) in living systems themselves has been an important influence. Cooperative effects (synergies) of various kinds have also been influential. And the bioeconomics (functional costs and benefits) have been important constraints. Now we are facing a mounting survival crisis that may determine the future of life on Earth. We need to make a major course change, utilizing our insights into these important influences. Here is a review, and a 'prescription.'