Replication or reproduction? Symbiogenesis as an alternative theory

This commentary takes issue with the idea that replication is a "fundamenta l element" in natural selection. Such an assumption is based on a tradition al, mechanistic view of evolution. A symbiogenetic theory of evolution offe rs an alternative to traditional theories, emphasizing reproduction and qua litative development rather than replication and quantitative development. The issues raised by the symbiogenetic alternative may be extended to discu ssions of behavioral development.