The Planetary Mind Hypothesis: Major Transitions in Collective Intelligence

This preprint proposes the Planetary Mind Hypothesis, which frames planetary-scale collective intelligence as a major evolutionary transition analogous to the emergence of multicellularity and eusociality. Drawing on principles from evolutionary theory, complex systems, and collective intelligence, the paper explores how dense communication networks, artificial intelligence, and global coordination may give rise to higher-order cognitive individuals at planetary scales. The framework yields testable predictions and discusses implications for artificial intelligence governance, global coordination, and the observability of advanced civilizations. This version expands the discussion of implications for artificial intelligence development and governance, and refines the abstract and conclusion accordingly.