Paul Davies
The Quote in Other Words
The organization of information in life is fundamentally different from the complexity of chemistry. Hence, the origin of life cannot be explained solely by chemistry, just as the functioning of a computer program cannot be explained by studying its physical components like silicon, copper, and plastic.
Explanation of the Quote
This quote highlights the fundamental difference between the logical structure of life and the mere complexity of chemistry. While chemistry can explain the composition of living organisms, it cannot fully account for the origin of life. Life’s ability to manage information in a way that allows for growth, reproduction, and adaptation is a unique characteristic that cannot be explained by chemistry alone.
The analogy of a computer is used to illustrate this point. A computer is made up of silicon, copper, and plastic, but it is the logical structure of the software that allows it to execute a program. Similarly, life is made up of chemical components, but it is the logical structure of information management that allows it to function.
This quote challenges us to think beyond the physical components of life and consider the underlying principles that govern its existence. It suggests that the origin of life may require a new understanding of information management and logical structures that differ from those found in chemistry.