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Where does biological complexity come from and how is it generated?

Episode Summary: Dr. Michael Levin talks about cognition manifesting at scales beyond brains, including in cells and tissues via bioelectric networks; analog vs. digital coding in biology; how bioelectric patterns guide development and regeneration (e.g., in planarians); creation of novel life forms like xenobots and anthrobots; philosophical ideas on a "platonic space" of mathematical patterns influencing biology; evolutionary trade-offs in regeneration and implications for regenerative medicine.

About the guest: Michael Levin, PhD is a biologist and computer scientist who directs the Allen Discovery Center at Tufts University, focusing on bioelectricity, regeneration, and cognition in non-neural systems.

Discussion Points:

• Cognition isn't limited to brains; tools from neuroscience reveal learning, memory, and goal-directed behavior in cells and tissues.
• Bioelectricity acts as "cognitive glue," enabling collective intelligence in non-neural systems, predating multicellular life.
• Analog coding in development uses slow voltage patterns across cells, contrasting fast digital spikes in neurons.
• Planarians regenerate perfectly due to bioelectric "memories"; altering patterns creates stable two-headed worms without genetic changes.
• Regeneration trade-offs: Mammals prioritize quick healing over full regrowth due to infection risks and load-bearing needs.
• Xenobots (from frog cells) and anthropots (from human cells) self-assemble, replicate, and heal tissues, revealing untapped cellular potentials.
• Patterns in biology may stem from a "platonic space" of mathematical truths, not just evolution or physics.
• Neuroscience studies mind scaling, not just neurons; diverse intelligences could exist in non-cellular systems.

Related content:

• M&M 95: Purpose, Value, Evolution, Consciousness, Sentience, Life & Emergence of Mind From Matter | Terrence Deacon

*Not medical advice.

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