[extropy-chat] Probability of identity

[Jef Allbright]

Heartland wrote:

 
> How do you define survival, Jef?

More relevant to this discussion, I think, is what survival is not.  The
common view of immortality [that's the implicit topic, right?] is a
simple theme of preservation and continuation, but with little thought
of growth, which, as the Red Queen observed, is necessary just to stay
in the same relative position within any competitive environment.
Growth over a significant period of time results in significant change,
which might be a disappointment to some were dreaming of persistence.

More directly to your question, the term "survival" can be used
effectively when it refers to certain traits within a certain context,
mutually understood.

- Jef