2nd " New Theory of Evolution " Workshop

On the afternoon of October 9th, Center for Evolutionary&Organismal Biology held its second " New Theory of Evolution " Workshop. The focus of this discussion was on whether genes are the sole agents of heredity. During this session, Xupeng Bi, Xiaotong Tang, Zijian Huang, and  Fuqiang Lin presented their perspectives on Standard Evolutionary Theory (SET) and Extended Evolutionary Synthesis (EES), highlighting their viewpoints and major differences regarding this subject.

The traditional evolutionary theory posits that genes are the sole carriers of heredity, suggesting that all genetic processes are based on genes. Conversely, proponents of the Extended Evolutionary Synthesis argue that the scope of heredity should be broadened. They advocate for the inclusion of non-genetic forms of inheritance such as parental effects, cultural transmission, ecological inheritance, and epigenetics. As articulated by the French evolutionary biologist Étienne Danchin, " Extended Evolutionary Synthesis does not diminish the importance of genes in heredity but strives to encompass all forms of inheritance to form a comprehensive evolutionary theory."

The "inclusive inheritance" advocated by the Extended Evolutionary Synthesis.
 
Image source: extendedevolutionarysynthesis.com

Subsequently, the attendees engaged in passionate and in-depth discussions regarding "the necessity of integrating non-genetic inheritance into the framework of genetic theory and its potential implications." Through this clash of perspectives, everyone developed a deeper level of contemplation and understanding regarding genetic theories.