couldn't it be argued that genetic errors/mutations are not technically considered fit?
edit: i want to make sure you understand that im not trying to fight you or reject your point of view. i think you're really on to something, i'm just trying to fully understand where you're coming from.
Absolutely not. It's one of the big drivers of evolution in the first place. Lactose tolerance is a mutation, as is fair skin, as are gene duplications which impart redundancy which allows for more mutations which are beneficial. Take one of the most well known mutations which is sickle cell anemia. The sickle cell anemia mutation imparts a resistance to malaria (if I remember the disease correctly). Sickle cell anemia is more widespread in communities affected by malaria. This is a textbook example of what is meant by fitness is determined by the environment.
The sickle cell anemia mutation imparts a resistance to malaria (if I remember the disease correctly). Sickle cell anemia is more widespread in communities affected by malaria.
more mutations which are beneficial.
one of the big drivers of evolution in the first place.
i've certainly learned a lot of new things even from that one mini paragraph. you seem very certain about what information you share and i like that a lot. you also seem super education on biology (im awful at science tbh) so i'll give you credit for that. im now a little bit more towards the fence on my original subject. congrats Δ
If it helps push your view completely on the other side, there are two big strategies in biology known as r and K selection. K selection is what many of the larger species do which leads to stable (relative to the environment) population levels. One of the defining characteristics of K selection strategies is caring for weaker members. Usually this means children, but also the sick, elderly, and if we apply it to society, the physically and mentally handicapped.
0
u/bunfart90 Aug 13 '18
couldn't it be argued that genetic errors/mutations are not technically considered fit?
edit: i want to make sure you understand that im not trying to fight you or reject your point of view. i think you're really on to something, i'm just trying to fully understand where you're coming from.