From Biology To The Science of Systems and the Appropriation of Innovation

By Eben van Tonder
24 June 2024 (Lagos)

Introduction

Fifteen years ago Dawie Hyman brought me a few books from the USA. One was “Sync: How Order Emerges from Chaos in the Universe, Nature, and Daily Life” by Steven Strogatz. He is a mathematician and he discusses the phenomenon of synchronization in various systems, including biological ones. He delves into how spontaneous order arises from chaos in natural and man-made systems, from the synchronization of fireflies’ flashing to the rhythms of the human heart.

He describes, for example, pacemaker cells – cells in the heart which synchronize to produce a regular heartbeat, the coordination of neuronal firing in the brain and circadian rhythms which is the well-known synchronization of biological clocks to the 24-hour day-night cycle.

I was inspired by the concepts of Strogatz and even back then when I started Woodys, one of my goals was to create a company that runs itself. Of course, the picture that I had back then was no more a romantic notion and I did not nearly have the information I have today to build a systems structure that is workable. So, I abandoned the idea, but our discussions from yesterday and the appropriation of technology and a possible biological basis revived my thoughts.

Yesterday was Sunday and I had powerful discussions with a friend of mine where we explored some of these concepts, for the first time since my very tentative thoughts on the subject 15 years ago. I could not fall asleep and spent a large part of the night writing and referencing and pulling my new understanding of protein from my work in meat science which I developed in relation to management and industrial engineering principles in my articles

I did not include Strogaz in my discussions last night but one of the reasons why I posted this article already is that it allows me one central location where it is housed and I will access it over the next week or so and include not only Strogaz, but the many additional insights and points of application that came to me as I tried to sleep last night.

Biology – Model of Optimal Systems Design

It seems to me that one of the ways biology impacts human culture is by modelling optimal systems. Human systems that evolved to be closely structured like biological systems are inherently effective. 

This view is a hindsight approach. As we understand biology better, we understand why certain cultural behaviours result in better outcomes. But, remarkably it turns out that biology evolved in such a way that it drives humans to the right and optimal systems designs.

First, we consider the characteristics of a successful system. I opted to include an application section at the end of each section where I consider what the applications can be in my area of speciality namely a meat factory.

Preparedness in an Environment of High Complexity and Choas

In complex biological systems, the environment is constantly changing, presenting a myriad of challenges and opportunities. In such settings, a static equilibrium is rare. Instead, the system thrives on flexibility and adaptability, requiring mechanisms that allow rapid and versatile responses. 

In chaotic and non-equilibrium environments, the predictability and stability of functions are less critical than the ability to respond to sudden changes.

The systems design that evolved can be described as biological preparedness. Such readiness is essential in complex systems where new challenges can arise unexpectedly, and having a versatile toolkit allows the organism to meet these challenges effectively.

Some proteins exist without a currently assigned specific function but have the potential to take on functions as needed by the organism. We develop this thought through the following technical concepts.

1. Protein Moonlighting

Some proteins have multiple functions, depending on their cellular context or environmental conditions. This phenomenon, known as protein moonlighting, allows a single protein to participate in various biological processes.

2. Intrinsically Disordered Proteins (IDPs) 

IDPs lack a fixed or stable three-dimensional structure under physiological conditions. This structural flexibility enables them to interact with multiple partners and take on different functions, depending on cellular needs.

3. Proteomic Plasticity

The concept of proteomic plasticity refers to the ability of the proteome (the entire set of proteins expressed by an organism) to adapt to changing environmental conditions. This plasticity allows the organism to respond dynamically to various challenges and opportunities.

4. Functional Redundancy

Functional redundancy in the proteome ensures that if one protein is non-functional or absent, other proteins can compensate for its role. This redundancy provides a buffer against mutations or environmental changes.

The presence of proteins without a currently assigned function can be seen as a form of biological preparedness. These proteins may be poised to take on roles as needed, contributing to the organism’s ability to respond to new challenges and opportunities. This capacity building is analogous to having a toolkit with versatile tools that can be adapted for various purposes as situations arise.

-> Application

  • Develop cross-functional teams with the ability to perform all major functions. This seems like a long-term strategy, but what if we “team” members up in interesting ways? For example, I divided the deboning team into small teams of 4 with a team leader. Then from these teams, I individuals who I work with as “cross functional teams”. My two first cross-functional teams are a capturing team and a team consisting of 1 person with me who changes the meat block systematically to increase the profitability of what we do. For the first time, I am now measuring the results of how the team cuts based on the sales that will be achieved from the cuts if we sell all of them. And we give daily feedback to the sales and promotions department on how they must sell and what they must promote to maximise the GP based on our current raw material.
  • Functional redundancy can be built in if we ask questions such as “How do we tumble the meat” if the tumbler is down. So, I am multi-functioning our equipment.
  • I am “postponing the decision on the final products as far as I can, from the concepts of IDPs. Remember that the IDPs lack a fixed or stable three-dimensional structure under physiological conditions. This structural flexibility enables them to interact with multiple partners and take on different functions, depending on cellular needs. The leg, for example, is one of the most versatile sections in the animal (second to the shoulder and neck). Normally we cut this into topside, silverside, thick flank (top rump) and rump and we remove the femur and what I call the pelvic bone but is actually the pelvic girdle (ilium, ischium, and pubis). When I realised that the pelvic bone is actually 3 bones fused together, I realised that each looks different and different density and shape. So, now I include each with the femur into the cut and I trim the topside, top rump and silverside off these bones in such a way as to create an additional sellable cut “on the bone”. The rest of the muscles I separate, but I do not cut them. I freeze them. Then I decide if I want it in steaks or as a roast or to make biltong from or so I want to cut them up as Goulash, cubes or stirfry. I have 24 hours to make that call but it gives me time to think. Do I get my Goulash, mince, cubes and stirfry from the FQ? Do I have FQs available? When will I have it if not? What is my opportunity cost if I cut the muscles into smaller bits vs keeping it intact and cutting steaks from it, for ex?

We are Incentivized to Design Our Systems in the Same Way

Nature provides an example of a system design that is optimal for highly complex and fluid environments. It “drives” us to the same design by “incentivizing” us to keep exploring new technology sets and integrating the productive ones rapidly into our culture and technology. In this way, it mimics evolution, which creates an optimal system exemplified by biological redundancy from a protein perspective.

We are incentivized to experiment and explore, and as we do this through the process of invention, we create and continue to create an increasingly complex society. Initially, we began with the specialization of labour and design, and very soon we realized the value of cross-functional technology sets. An example of such a technology set is the concept of a computer language, capable of creating a broad range of applications as the needs of the environment change. This contrasts with Stone Age tools created by early humans, where each tool had a single use.

We experience the outcomes of the reward system in what we call curiosity, learning, exploration and invention. The biological and evolutionary basis for these experiences and propensities is connected to the brain’s reward system. It is, for example, the basis for the great concept of Wanderlust.

It is tied to learning and innovation and is a product of natural selection. This system basically incentivizes behaviours that enhance survival and reproduction, thus driving innovation from a biological perspective. 

The Brain’s Reward System

1. Dopamine and the Reward Circuitry

   – The brain’s reward system primarily involves the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in pleasure and motivation. When an individual engages in activities that are beneficial for survival, such as eating, socializing, or learning, dopamine is released, creating a feeling of pleasure and reinforcing the behaviour.

   – Key structures in this system include the ventral tegmental area (VTA), the nucleus accumbens, and the prefrontal cortex. These areas work together to process rewards and reinforce advantageous behaviours

2. Reinforcement Learning

   – Reinforcement learning is a process by which behaviours are strengthened or weakened based on their outcomes. Positive outcomes (rewards) increase the likelihood of repeating a behaviour while negative outcomes (punishments) decrease it.

   – This mechanism is crucial for adaptive behaviour allowing individuals to learn from their environment and make decisions that enhance their chances of survival and reproduction.

Evolutionary Perspective

3. Adaptive Advantage

   – The reward system’s evolution can be understood as providing an adaptive advantage. Individuals who experienced pleasure from activities that improved their survival and reproductive success were more likely to repeat those behaviours and pass on their genes.

   – For example, early humans who found joy and satisfaction in solving problems or creating tools would have been better equipped to survive harsh environments and provide for their families, thereby enhancing their reproductive success.

4. Curiosity and Exploration

   – Curiosity is a natural extension of the reward system. The intrinsic motivation to explore and understand new things leads to the discovery of resources, new territories, and innovative solutions to problems.

   – Evolutionarily, individuals with a strong sense of curiosity would have been better at finding food, avoiding dangers, and adapting to new environments. This trait would have been naturally selected for its survival benefits.

Innovation as a Byproduct

5. Problem-Solving and Tool Use

   – The pleasure derived from solving problems and using tools would have reinforced these behaviours Early humans who innovated in tool-making and problem-solving had a significant survival advantage, leading to the development of increasingly sophisticated technologies.

   – This positive feedback loop between problem-solving success and reward reinforcement would have accelerated technological and cognitive advancements.

6. Social Learning and Cooperation

   – The reward system also promotes social learning and cooperation. Humans are social animals, and learning from others provides a significant survival advantage. Social behaviours such as teaching, imitation, and collaboration are reinforced by the reward system.

   – Cooperation and the sharing of innovations within a group would have increased the overall fitness of the group, promoting the spread of advantageous behaviours and technologies.

Biological Imperative for Continuous Improvement

7. Neuroplasticity

   – The brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections, known as neuroplasticity, is fundamental to learning and innovation. This plasticity is driven by the reward system, which strengthens neural pathways associated with successful behaviours

   – This capacity for change and adaptation allows humans to continuously improve and innovate, responding to new challenges and opportunities.

8. Long-Term Rewards and Delayed Gratification

   – Humans are capable of understanding and working towards long-term rewards, a trait that is reinforced by the reward system. The ability to delay gratification for a more significant future benefit is crucial for planning, investment in complex projects, and innovation.

   – This ability to pursue long-term goals is a distinguishing feature of human cognition, enabling the development of complex technologies and societal structures.

Application

Immediately introducing a reward system based on eating output targets and creativity which increase profit, output and quality.

THE PREDICTED OUTCOME

It is no wonder that after hundreds of thousands of years of applying this reward system, our systems design now closely mimics biological systems.

Nature has provided us with another mechanism to facilitate the quick and effective appropriation of new technology, which then becomes the basis for new technology sets. This mechanism is the natural distribution of roles within our societies, creating an optimal balance of innovators and designers, artists who romanticize new technology through stories, music, and poetry, businesspeople who transform innovation into currency and organize funding structures to further drive innovation, and educators who train the next generation to use new tools optimally. This dynamic has been fundamental to the introduction of technology into our society, from the discovery of fire and the wheel to the advent of AI and everything in between.

Following any invention, there is a surge of activity where the new technology is applied to every conceivable aspect of our existence. the example, once built he discovered and controlled, and it revolutionized how food was prepared. It was used to burn plants and extract salts and minerals, incorporated into hunting strategy to drive animals to our traps, and we incorporated it in warfare and land clearing for agriculture. Fire also played a crucial role in the development of building materials and the smelting of metals like copper, bronze, and iron into useful tools and weapons. It even influenced cultural practices, such as how we send our dead into the afterlife. This technological advancement led to further innovations, such as the construction of ovens and the making of clay pot containers.

Every subsequent technology set followed a similar path of widespread application and integration into various facets of life. It is applied to every conceivable area and in some cases it fails and does not fit but we try. Successful application and incorporation lead to further innovations. This pattern is evident all the way up to contemporary advancements like artificial intelligence. Each new technology not only builds on the previous ones but also expands its impact across diverse areas of human activity, driving continuous evolution and complexity in our societies.

Application

The team members have different talents. I am spending time getting to know everyone better by designing a questionnaire with the help of AI that will allow me to evaluate each member’s weaknesses and strengths and allow me to utilise him/ her in the right role. It also tells me how to interact best with every person to get the desired outcome and to tailor my expectations of them.

THE MECHANISMS BEHIND THE PHENOMENON 

This phenomenon achieves the right balance of poets, inventors, and other roles through a combination of biological, cultural, and environmental factors that promote diversity and adaptability within human societies. 

-> Genetic Diversity

Human populations possess a wide range of genetic variations, which contribute to differences in talents, inclinations, and cognitive abilities. This genetic diversity ensures that within any given population, there will be individuals with the potential to excel in various roles, such as inventors, artists, leaders, and educators. Natural selection favours traits that enhance survival and reproduction, and these traits can manifest in different ways, supporting a balance of diverse skills and roles.

-> Cultural Evolution

Cultural evolution complements biological evolution by shaping behaviours, norms, and values that support societal balance. Cultures develop institutions, traditions, and educational systems that recognize and nurture different talents. For example, educational systems identify and cultivate abilities in science, art, business, and other fields, ensuring that diverse talents are developed and utilized.

-> Environmental Influences

The environment plays a crucial role in shaping human behaviour and societal roles. Environmental challenges and opportunities drive the need for a variety of skills and innovations. Societies adapt to their specific environmental conditions by encouraging the development of relevant skills and knowledge. For instance, harsh climates might foster innovation in shelter and clothing, while fertile lands might promote agricultural advancements.

-> Social Structures

Human societies are structured in ways that promote collaboration and specialization. Social hierarchies, economic systems, and communal living arrangements create niches for different roles. This structuring allows individuals to find and develop their unique talents, contributing to the overall balance of skills within society.

-> Cultural Narratives and Role Models

Stories, myths, and historical narratives celebrate and elevate diverse roles, providing role models for future generations. Cultural narratives about great inventors, poets, leaders, and other figures inspire individuals to pursue these paths, ensuring that each role continues to be valued and perpetuated.

-> Education and Mentorship

Formal and informal education systems play a crucial role in identifying and nurturing diverse talents. Mentorship and apprenticeship programs allow experienced individuals to pass on their knowledge and skills to the next generation, maintaining a balance of expertise across different fields.

-> Flexibility and Adaptability

Human societies are inherently flexible and adaptable. As new challenges and opportunities arise, societies can shift their focus and resources to meet these needs. This adaptability ensures that the balance of roles can evolve over time, responding to changes in technology, the economy, and the environment.

CONCLUSION

This closes the loop and paints a picture of how biology provides the spark and we end up with a copy of complex biological systems to manage our society which are becoming phenomenally complex! This is my “reaction pathway” to systems that mimic biological systems in complexity. The challenge is now to use these concepts in building organisations that can grow “by themselves” apart from a central command and control architecture. A system that regulates and governs itself. This is the first draft of many to follow. Feedback loops must for example be built in. But the one lesson for tonight is that we must begin with the right reward system and allow the organisation to grow.

Another concluding application note is the need to focus. A friend of mine’s dad’s favourite saying was: “Glücklich ist, wer vergisst, was nicht mehr zu ändern ist,” which translates as “Happy is he who forgets what cannot be changed.” My friend tells me that the saying was set to music by Johann Strauss’ son in a polka-mazurka and first performed in October or November 1874 and I added a link for those of you who want to listen to it. The idea behind the saying is not to worry about things you cannot change. In the context of the discussion on systems design, this means maintaining a laser-sharp focus on the main system from a systems outcome perspective and not getting sidetracked by things you cannot change anyway. This is particularly important in an environment like Nigeria where I find myself as I tackle this environment.

References

Books and Articles on Synchronization and Biological Systems

  1. Strogatz, Steven H. “Sync: How Order Emerges from Chaos in the Universe, Nature, and Daily Life.” Hyperion, 2003.
  2. Camazine, Scott, et al. “Self-Organization in Biological Systems.” Princeton University Press, 2003.
  3. Goldbeter, Albert. “Biochemical Oscillations and Cellular Rhythms: The Molecular Bases of Periodic and Chaotic Behaviour.” Cambridge University Press, 1997.
  4. Kuramoto, Yoshiki. “Chemical Oscillations, Waves, and Turbulence.” Dover Publications, 2003.
  5. Winfree, Arthur T. “The Geometry of Biological Time.” Springer, 2001.

Biological Principles Applied to Systems Design

  1. Kitano, Hiroaki. “Biological Robustness.” Nature Reviews Genetics, vol. 5, no. 11, 2004, pp. 826-837.
  2. Alon, Uri. “An Introduction to Systems Biology: Design Principles of Biological Circuits.” Chapman & Hall/CRC, 2006.
  3. Hartwell, Leland H., et al. “From Molecular to Modular Cell Biology.” Nature, vol. 402, no. 6761, 1999, pp. C47-C52.

Neuroscience and Reward Systems

  1. Schultz, Wolfram. “Neuronal Reward and Decision Signals: From Theories to Data.” Physiological Reviews, vol. 95, no. 3, 2015, pp. 853-951.
  2. Dayan, Peter, and Read Montague. “Computational Modelling of Reinforcement Learning: The Role of Dopamine.” Nature Neuroscience, vol. 3, 2000, pp. 121-127.
  3. Wise, Roy A. “Dopamine, Learning and Motivation.” Nature Reviews Neuroscience, vol. 5, 2004, pp. 483-494.

Innovation and Evolutionary Perspectives

  1. Csikszentmihalyi, Mihaly. “Creativity: Flow and the Psychology of Discovery and Invention.” Harper Perennial, 1997.
  2. Ridley, Matt. “The Evolution of Everything: How New Ideas Emerge.” Harper, 2015.
  3. Wilson, Edward O. “The Social Conquest of Earth.” Liveright, 2012.

Organizational Theory and Systems Design

  1. Morgan, Gareth. “Images of Organization.” Sage Publications, 2006.
  2. Senge, Peter M. “The Fifth Discipline: The Art & Practice of The Learning Organization.” Doubleday, 2006.
  3. Meadows, Donella H. “Thinking in Systems: A Primer.” Chelsea Green Publishing, 2008.
  4. Hamel, Gary, and Michele Zanini. “Humanocracy: Creating Organizations as Amazing as the People Inside Them.” Harvard Business Review Press, 2020.

Cultural and Evolutionary Biology

  1. Henrich, Joseph. “The Secret of Our Success: How Culture is Driving Human Evolution, Domesticating Our Species, and Making Us Smarter.” Princeton University Press, 2016.
  2. Boyd, Robert, and Peter J. Richerson. “Culture and the Evolutionary Process.” University of Chicago Press, 1985.

Neuroplasticity and Learning

  1. Doidge, Norman. “The Brain That Changes Itself: Stories of Personal Triumph from the Frontiers of Brain Science.” Penguin Books, 2007.
  2. Draganski, Bogdan, et al. “Neuroplasticity: Changes in Grey Matter Induced by Training.” Nature, vol. 427, no. 6972, 2004, pp. 311-312.

Image Reference: Neuroscience News on LinkedIn: Redefining Myelin Damage – Neuroscience News