Biological complexity: more on siphonosphores (Introduction)

by David Turell , Saturday, April 18, 2020, 20:33 (1680 days ago) @ dhw

dhw: The discussion started when I pointed out that my new friend the siphonosphore provided a wonderful illustration of how all multicellular bodies function – including ours: through the cooperation of cellular communities. Instead of accepting the analogy, you proceeded to challenge it. I really don’t know why, since you keep confirming everything I said. Perhaps just arguing for the sake of arguing?

DAVID: This is not really multicellularity.

DAVID (14th April): this guy is much more of a multicellular organism than bacterial mats, as I first suggested.

DAVID: Your complaint is reminiscent of your cell committees brilliance theorizing. Frankly I don't dare give you an inch. You always want to take a yard about real intelligence popping up everywhere.

dhw: I’m only complaining about your pointless rejection of the analogy. Do you or do you not agree that “this guy” illustrates the way in which all multicellular bodies function – through cooperation between cellular communities?

I'll give you it is a slim imitation. All it is is individuals who cooperate.