Nonlinear Dynamics, Artificial Cognition and Galactic Export

Abstract. The field of nonlinear dynamics focuses on function rather than structure. Evolution and brain function are examples. An equation for a brain, described in 1973, is explained. Then, a principle of interactional function change between two coupled equations of this type is described. However, all of this is not done in an abstract manner but in close contact with the meaning of these equations in a biological context. Ethological motivation theory and Batesonian interaction theory are reencountered. So is a fairly unknown finding by van Hooff on the indistinguishability of smile and laughter in a single primate species. Personhood and evil, two human characteristics, are described abstractly. Therapies and the question of whether it is ethically allowed to export benevolence are discussed. The whole dynamic approach is couched in terms of the Cartesian narrative, invented in the 17th century and later called Enlightenment. Whether or not it is true that a "second Enlightenment" is around the corner is the main question raised in the present paper