Discussion by: This Is Not A Meme
Are female peacocks driven by genetics to select for colorful, patterned males? If so, how is that not orthogenesis? If it is not genetic, can we say complex (sentient?) organisms are designed not only by genes but by memes as well? Should we consider consciousness an environmental factor in terms of natural selection, or is it a primary design agent?
I've been trying to articulate this question for a while, and I realize it is still muddy. Basically, I realize there is no intelligence behind the design of most life, but do intelligent organisms demonstrate design from mind, with genes as a mere means of implimenting design? Does the Blind Watchmaker ever peek, or feel around a bit?