DNA is more like variable parameters to a function than machine code instructions. When you alter the input to a function you alter the output, but you do not crash the system. Cells can metabolize for some time without DNA.
DNA as code is a very limited analogy, and cannot be used to imply that mutations are typically fatal.
[[DNA is more like variable parameters to a function than machine code instructions.]
The code/instructions analogy holds up- As you mention- alterations can only occure within parameters unique to a species code/instructions- the key here are hte parameters. Species are coded uniquely per KIND, and instructions include allowances of variances within certain parameters, and the instructions have the added advantage of having set protection variables which are instructed to kick in when somethign goes awry- Code can take into account any kinds of variables, and can be constructed with instructions to account for alterations and act in specific ways when the gene’s code encoutners problems or alterations.
While the output has been altered when the input was altered, it was all within the set isntructions within the parameters and the variences were coded for to begin with.
That is called code. Ever heard of an emulator.
Cells can metabolize for some time without DNA.
Sure, those are called chemical reactions. A computer can save some data as the power crashes.
And mutations are not typically fatal. That is due to the fact that the cell repairs all but a few percent. Ever seen the blue screen of death on a PC? That is due to the fact that the system is ensuring a "mutation" in the code is fatal whereas, it could just reload and restart.