Discussion: Agency and Cognition in the Natural World

This discussion brings together several threads we have been developing across our Fragments to Agents, Fragments to Agents to Humans, and From Metabolism to Agency events.

Across these sessions, a common question keeps reappearing, how do agency and cognition arise in the natural world, and how are they grounded in physical, biological, and metabolic processes rather than assumed as given? When we place these ideas side by side, questions about fragments, agents, and humans begin to converge into a broader discussion of natural cognition and agency.

In this event, we will step back and look at that larger picture. We will explore what agency and cognition might look like at different scales, how metabolic processes relate to purposive behavior, and what transitions or constraints may be involved as systems move from simple regulation toward more flexible, world-engaged forms of agency.

This will be a discussion-focused session rather than a formal presentation. The goal is to clarify concepts, compare perspectives, and connect ongoing research and theory across biology, philosophy, and complex systems.

Newcomers are very welcome. No prior background is required, just an openness to listen, learn, and ask questions. Those more familiar with the series or the topic can expect to deepen and refine their thinking, while also helping newer participants get oriented and up to speed.