Abstract
This chapter first describes three fundamental evolutionary selection mechanisms that shape the biological landscape: natural, artificial, and sexual selection. We then discuss two applications of selection mechanisms to cosmology. We first consider the history, theory, and limitations of the theory of cosmological natural selection (CNS) proposed by Smolin. Second, to remedy those limitations, we introduce cosmological artificial selection (CAS) and review its history and theory. Since the theory is quite speculative, we propose six possible levels of universe making (from blind, accidental, and artificial black hole production to cosmic breeder, cosmic engineer, and God player). We defend it from a philosophical point of view and address many objections that naturally arise. These include the design and creation terminology, the comparison of CAS with other fine-tuning explanations, the causal issue, the thermodynamic issue, epistemological issues, its feasibility, its underlying motivation, and some implications for the idea of freedom. We then summarize four different roads leading to CAS and recapitulate the case for CAS.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
