The Sophisticated Living Cell of Max Delbrück

On a visit to the Museum of Science and Industry, in Chicago

Max Delbrück

In Theory of Algorithms, I conceptualize an algorithm as a smart, evolving organism.  Many technical or mathematical models we create are set:  They proceed to determine, evaluate and solve a problem in a pre-determined fashion.  But an algorithm learns from experience, and adapts itself accordingly.  So it becomes better at solving problems, and moreover better at solving more complex, unfamiliar problems.  

When I reflect on Max Delbrück's point (above), then, a living cell must be a phenomenally sophisticated organism, for having a billion years under its microscopic belt to learn, adapt and evolve.  My algorithms can only aspire to be that sophisticated.

(image credit)

I am at work on an Algorithm for Disease, with which I hope to lend us better insight into the phenomenology, purpose and biology of humankind's scourge.  One of my working arguments is that disease represents a veritable and meaningful battle for life vis-a-vis human beings.  Moreover, while we may not admit, let alone accept this, disease has built up such an evolved level of sophistication as to rival Sun Tzu in "The Art of War."

Delbrück brought to bear his training in astrophysics and theoretical physics on biology, and accordingly research on viruses earned him and his colleagues the Nobel Prize in 1969.