The concept of extended communication involves viewing communication acts as fundamental problem-solving activities, where both genetic and cognitive memory systems play a role in the adaptation and evolution of living matter.

Key Insights

• Sender-Receiver Model:

  • The sender-receiver, or "communicating compartment," is proposed as the universal unit of structure and function in living matter, replacing the traditional cell-based model
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  • This model emphasizes that communication acts are inherently problem-solving activities, as all messages are coded and require decoding by the receiver
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• Dual Memory Systems:

  • Each sender-receiver unit harbors two memory systems: genetic and cognitive, which are crucial for both organic and cultural evolution
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  • This dual system allows for the coexistence of "physical children" and "pupils," representing biological and cultural transmission, respectively
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• Problem-Solving Activity:

  • Communication acts are seen as problem-solving activities because they involve decoding and responding to coded messages
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  • This perspective aligns with the idea that life's evolution is a hardware-software continuum governed by genetics and communication principles
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Conclusion

Extended communication redefines communication acts as essential problem-solving activities, integrating genetic and cognitive memory systems to facilitate both organic and cultural evolution. This paradigm shift underscores the importance of communication in the broader context of life's adaptation and evolution.