The evolution of ageing: classic theories and emerging ideas

Mc Auley, Mark T.

doi:10.1007/s10522-024-10143-5

The evolution of ageing: classic theories and emerging ideas

Mc Auley, Mark T.

Authors

Dr Mark McAuley M.McAuley@salford.ac.uk
Lecturer

Abstract

Ageing is generally regarded as a non-adaptive by-product of evolution. Based on this premise three classic evolutionary theories of ageing have been proposed. These theories have dominated the literature for several decades. Despite their individual nuances, the common thread which unites them is that they posit that ageing results from a decline in the intensity of natural selection with chronological age. Empirical evidence has been identified which supports each theory. However, a consensus remains to be fully established as to which theory best accounts for the evolution of ageing. A consequence of this uncertainty are counter arguments which advocate for alternative theoretical frameworks, such as those which propose an adaptive origin for ageing, senescence, or death. Given this backdrop, this review has several aims. Firstly, to briefly discuss the classic evolutionary theories. Secondly, to evaluate how evolutionary forces beyond a monotonic decrease in natural selection can affect the evolution of ageing. Thirdly, to examine alternatives to the classic theories. Finally, to introduce a pluralistic interpretation of the evolution of ageing. The basis of this pluralistic theoretical framework is the recognition that certain evolutionary ideas will be more appropriate depending on the organism, its ecological context, and its life history.

Citation

Mc Auley, M. T. (2025). The evolution of ageing: classic theories and emerging ideas. Biogerontology, 26(1), 6. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10522-024-10143-5

Journal Article Type	Article
Acceptance Date	Oct 7, 2024
Online Publication Date	Oct 29, 2024
Publication Date	Feb 1, 2025
Deposit Date	Nov 4, 2024
Publicly Available Date	Nov 4, 2024
Journal	Biogerontology
Print ISSN	1389-5729
Electronic ISSN	1573-6768
Publisher	Springer Verlag
Peer Reviewed	Peer Reviewed
Volume	26
Issue	1
Pages	6
DOI	https://doi.org/10.1007/s10522-024-10143-5
Keywords	Senescence, Ageing, Longevity, Evolution, Pluralism

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