In order for any living creature to adapt, it must either be 100% controlled by chemistry and biology, without any mind to think about the adaptation, or it must involve consciousness and thought that affects physical changes. For example, consider a giraffe with a shorter neck trying to reach food that’s too high. In a way different from our thinking, it might "wish" it could reach that food. Evolutionary biology often overlooks the role of consciousness and thought in the physical adaptation of creatures. My theory is that consciousness and thought play a significant role in these changes.
Obviously, another factor that influences change in a creature is the environment. If the environment is not producing enough food, competition for food will intensify. If plant life becomes scarce, a creature might adapt by deciding to hunt and consume flesh. Conversely, an intelligent creature like a human might notice an abundance of vegetation and decide to reduce animal protein intake, recognizing that hunting is riskier and takes more time away from the family. Farming, on the other hand, keeps the family closer together, unless the country is at war, which is a different story.
In summary, human beings can change their behavior almost overnight due to external influences, impulses, or whims, leading to dramatic changes in behavior. Physical changes, however, take much longer and require the intermixing of successful physical traits. These changes also require us to consciously think about the changes we seek. If these changes are compassionate and aligned with nature’s plan for our species, we will evolve because nature will provide the opportunity.
The change we would like to see is for all creatures to live in harmony and peace. We would love to see humans as the exemplary species, the ambassadors of our planet. If visited by another form of intelligent life, they would admire humans for their ethics, care for their species, and interest in other creatures. They would treasure life and want to see it proliferate. This is the kind of creature they would want to bring to their home planet and share their technology with.
Currently, a more intelligent creature might see humanity’s potential for good but be frightened by our potential for horror. I envision humanity in the future with sharper natural eyesight to see far into the cosmos on a clear dark night. We would expand our understanding of the natural world. I also believe humans will develop a part of their brain that makes it easier to feel enjoyment and pleasure through practices like meditation. Such beings would likely have the most stable minds and safest behavior patterns, being the most relaxed and calm among us.
