Table 2 Summary of the differential characteristic features of neoplasia within a self-referential evolutionary frame compared to a NeoDarwinian model

Self-referential cellular cognition

Differential fitness driving clonal selection

 Information and communication dependent

 Problem-solving to maintain homeostasis

Non-random communication/problem solving

Stochastic mutations

Natural cellular engineering

Differential fitness/survival

Stigmergy/niche construction as problem-solving

Niche construction via clonal selection,

Reverse evolution/hyperadapability

Random mutation/selection

Privileged cellular participant/observer status

Passive selection driven participation

Phenotype as self-referential environmental exploration

Phenotype as a result of clonal selection

Natural selection is a post facto filter

Natural selection shapes neoplastic phenotype

Genes/CIN as informational tools and a flexible

response system

Random genetic mutations drive neoplasia

Genes as code

Integrated proteomics/transcriptomics

Oncogenes

Primacy of immunology to sustain self-reference

Immunology as a secondary phenomenon

Deterministic cellular creativity solves problems

Fitness/selection; stochastic variables

Initiates as self-directed pathobiont

Random replication error

 Parasitical homeostasis