Transcript
There is about one point mutation for every 100 million base pairs in humans. With the technical caveat that mutation rate actually varies across different regions of the genome and between individuals.
While some mutations are harmful in biological organisms, others might provide beneficial traits that help species survive. Consider the mutation that allows some humans to digest lactose into adulthood, or the CCR5-delta32 mutation that provides resistance to HIV. These genetic 'errors' have conferred significant advantages to their bearers.
DNA repair systems work relentlessly, day and night to correct these mistakes. These molecular guardians are like tireless proofreaders, scanning billions of base pairs for errors and fixing them with remarkable precision. Yet, if they were 100% efficient, if they made no mistakes, beneficial mutations wouldn't occur, completely undermining the entire project of adaptive evolution.
This delicate balance between fidelity and flexibility is a cornerstone of life's resilience. It's nature's way of hedging its bets, ensuring that species can adapt to changing environments while maintaining overall genetic stability.
Similarly, in technological and scientific enterprise, mistakes are not always setbacks. Unexpected results can be a path to breakthroughs. Sir Alexander Fleming’s popular discovery is a case in point. His accidental contamination of a petri dish led to one of the most significant medical advancements in history - The Penicillin, revolutionizing infection treatments and laying the foundation for modern antibiotics.
But Fleming's serendipitous find is just one example. There are too many: the discovery of X-rays, the invention of the microwave oven, and the creation of Post-it notes all stem from errors or unexpected outcomes. These examples remind us that innovation often lurks in the shadows of what is unforeseen.
Error could mean progress.
Create systems that are antifragile - systems that don't merely withstand shocks and disruptions but actually improve precisely because of them. Experiment. Fail Fast. Engineer cultures that view challenges as opportunities for growth. Wander.
Create systems that are antifragile
Error Could Mean Progress