I can define a series of metrics—energy consumption and “win” ratio being the most obvious—and define an n-dimensional function on those metrics, and then prove that given bounds in all directions that a maximum exists
I don’t think you can guarantee ONE maximum. But in any case, the vastness of the space of all n-dimensional functions makes the argument unpersuasive. Let’s get a bit closer to the common, garden-variety reality and ask a simpler question. In which directions do you think human brain should change/evolve/mutate to become more optimal? And in these directions, is the further the better or there is a point beyond which one should not go?
so if it turns out our health takes a hit because of optimizing for intelligence somehow we can afford it
Um, I have strong doubts about that. Your body affects your mind greatly (not to mention your quality of life).
I don’t think you can guarantee ONE maximum. But in any case, the vastness of the space of all n-dimensional functions makes the argument unpersuasive. Let’s get a bit closer to the common, garden-variety reality and ask a simpler question. In which directions do you think human brain should change/evolve/mutate to become more optimal? And in these directions, is the further the better or there is a point beyond which one should not go?
Um, I have strong doubts about that. Your body affects your mind greatly (not to mention your quality of life).