There are two main reasons for proposing a more exact definition. A replicator is not valid unless its working environment, and the selective force to which it is subject, is specified.Īn extensive reformation of the replicator definition is needed. The most important claim is that replication, in general, is basically autocatalysis, with a specific defined environment and selective force.

This allows for the exact identification of various replicator types and their underlying dynamics.

The formal definition and the abstract models presented can distinguish between among all possible replicator types, based on their quantity of variable and heritable information. This paper redefines the concept of the replicator from a bottom-up theoretical approach. The classification should be able to be successfully applied to known replicators and also to future candidates. A hierarchical classification for the partition of the replicator-continuum is provided where specific replicators are nested within more general ones. This sheds light on the old problem of the units and levels of selection and evolution. In order to deal with the situation, an abstract, formal framework is presented, which allows the proper identification of various types of replicators. However, in turn, any entity possessing copiable information is to be named a replicator, even multicellular organisms.

Simple autocatalytic molecules (and nests) are excluded from this group. A stricter definition refers to entities which can inherit acquired changes (informational replicators). A consequence of which is that any autocatalytically multiplying entity is a replicator, be it simple or overly complex (even nests). Simple autocatalytic cycle intermediates are considered as non-informational replicators. Replication is basically an autocatalytic process which enables us to rest on the notions of formal chemistry. Therefore, it is importance to decide the nature and characteristics of any multiplying entity, in a detailed and formal way. Without identifying and classifying multiplying entities exactly, their dynamics cannot be determined appropriately.

The notion of a replicator, however, is far less exact than the weight of its importance. Replicators are the crucial entities in evolution.

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