Xenophylum: Toward a Synthetic Cambrian Explosion

Abstract

This paper argues for a conceptual shift from biomimicry to xenomorphology in design, proposing a “synthetic Cambrian explosion” driven by techniques such as machine learning, robotics, and synthetic biology. Building on theoretical foundations from Bernard Stiegler’s notion of exosomatic evolution, mimetic theories, and assembly theory (developed by Michael Levin, Lee Cronin, and Sara Walker), we show how design has historically aligned with natural forms—a trend we term generalized biomimesis. While this biomimetic paradigm has yielded significant innovations, it constrains creativity by reinforcing nature as a universal model and moral ideal. By contrast, xenomorphology invites designers to explore genuinely alien morphologies unbound by terrestrial adaptation. Drawing on exemplars from the field of evolutionary computing, we argue that computational platforms and modular assembly enable vast new “morphospaces” decoupled from Earth’s evolutionary constraints. Ultimately, such a shift paves the way for new forms of anti-fragile design, where emergent resilience and novel behaviors come together to formulate new conceptions of intelligence and adaptation. Embracing xenomorphology opens a radical reimagining of design practice—one with the potential to shape the future of lifelike systems and our evolving relationship with technology.