[xzins]

Hi, AG. I don't have much time to get into it today, but it seems that it's necessary as well to think in other directions. Let's say, hypothetically, that it's a given that random natural selection is not an acceptable solution.

Does it necessarily follow that the actual solution must lie in the direction of intelligence? It seems that the only thing we've ruled out is "random." Every direction other than random is still ruled in.

Is intelligence the only direction other than random?

[AntiGuv]

First of all, it's worth noting that the modern synthesis theory of genetic evolution includes more than just natural selection.

Secondly, it's difficult to properly answer your question because natural selection is not random. For example, "survival of the fittest" does not hold that traits emerge or prevail at random (for no apparent reason, with no apparent structure) but rather that those traits which confer a competitive advantage or make an organism more adaptable are most likely to propagate.

Regardless, the short answer is the same: No, intelligence is not the only direction other than random (whatever you meant by random).

[AntiGuv]

PS. It'd be easier to seriously discuss your question if you reframe it to state exactly what you mean instead of random. If you mean "undirected" or "unguided" or "undesigned" or whatever.