Schneider2026MDFMTM

Title

On Making Decisions: from Molecules to Mammals
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Authors

Thomas D. Schneider

Affiliations

Thomas D. Schneider, Biological Information Theory Scientist, Frederick, Maryland.

Abstract

Decisions can be measured in bits of information. In turn, bits measure selections between biological states that can be represented as spheres in a high dimensional coding space. The spheres do not intersect when decisions are distinct but instead are tightly packed together and just kissing, like gumballs in a gumball machine. In this case, the isothermal efficiency of the process is 70%. Reversing this logic, when a system has a 70% efficiency this implies that its functional states are distinct. The EcoRI molecule and a domestic cat named Molly are used as examples to demonstrate the 70% effect. Evidently these ideas apply at all levels of living beings and might provide a way to measure degrees of consciousness. If a molecule and a mammal both make decisions in the same way, what are our obligations for treating them kindly as sentient beings?

KeyPhrases

Theoretical biology, information bits, hyperspheres, isothermal efficiency, decision making, EcoRI molecule, domestic cat, 70% effect.

Dates

Created 2026-03-16, received 2026-09-29, updated 2026-11-01, published 2026-11-02.

Citation

Brainiacs Journal 2026 Volume 7 Issue 2 Edoc X485CF9D7
DOI: 10.48085/X485CF9D7
NPDS: LINKS/Brainiacs/Schneider2026MDFMTM

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