The origins of order : self organization and selection in evolution /

Having indicated the limitations of selection (per Darwin) as the principal force for evolution in his introduction, Kauffman begins this treatise with an expanded, detailed study of selection in the context of a "fitness landscape." Finding this hypothesis also insufficient for the development of complex systems, he enlarges the model with an expansive analysis, proposing order and self-organization as inherent properties of complex systems. In the course of the discussion, Kauffman considers this view as an extension of current and emerging studies of the solid state. The ideas presented are applied to considerations of the origin of life and developmental biology as well as to evolution. The material is presented in an ordered and detailed fashion, with extensive references to and applications from mathematics, physics, and molecular biology. Kauffman presents an intriguing work in which he proposes basic organizing principles for complex systems as well as suggesting directions for future inquiries to test his hypothesis. An interesting and provocative work, well referenced, for the prepared reader. Recommended for libraries serving graduate studies and research groups.