There is a new research paper published (preprint only) by the Resonance Science Foundation Research Team. In this publication a key characteristic that distinguishes a living system from abiotic matter is discussed, and is identified as the primary criterion by which any arrangement of space-matter-energy can be unambiguously defined as alive. In addition to elucidating the nature of living systems, and what it means for an organization of matter and energy to be alive, the criterion serves as a methodology to unambiguously and positively identify a system as (1) alive, and (2) as conscious. In regards to the latter (2), the methodology outlined in the study is a significant advancement  over the Turing test, which does not distinguish a programmed automaton from a system with true stand-alone volition and consciousness, and hence is a substandard method to identify a system as conscious.

By: William Brown, scientist at the Resonance Science Foundation

What is life?...