Mutation and evolution: Conceptual possibilities

Although random mutation is central to models of evolutionary change, a lack of clarity remains regarding the conceptual possibilities for thinking about the nature and role of mutation in evolution. We distinguish several claims at the intersection of mutation, evolution, and directionality and then characterize a previously unrecognized category: complex conditioned mutation. Empirical evidence in support of this category suggests that the historically famous fluctuation test should be revisited, and new experiments should be undertaken with emerging experimental techniques to facilitate detecting mutation rates within specific loci at an ultra‐high, individual base pair resolution. Regulatory processes shaped by information accumulated in the genome over multiple generations influence mutation rates in a mutation‐specific and biologically meaningful manner (e.g., genes that are used together are more likely to be fused together by mutational mechanisms). Therefore, mutation origination phenomena exist that are neither accidental nor Lamarckian.