Is the human body the product of a series of random phases that culminated in its present form, or did it evolve through a guided journey, shaped by the intelligence of nature, adapting to conditions in ways that suggest an intricate, purposeful design spanning vast epochs of time?

Consider, for instance, the human immune system₁, a marvel of evolutionary adaptation that responds to threats through its two main branches: the innate immune system and the adaptive immune system.

The innate immune system consists primarily of macrophages, neutrophils, and protein molecules within the complement system. These components are the body’s first line of defense, ready to attack intruders at any given time. However, unfortunately, certain pathogens possess extraordinary resistance, overpowering these frontline defenders, leaving them inadequate in battle. To address such challenges, the body relies on its second line of defense, the adaptive immune system, specifically B cells and T cells*.

Within this system, dendritic cells function as sentinels, collecting fragments of pathogens from the “battlefield” and transporting them to the lymph nodes, where antigens_† are presented to T and B cells, which possess billions of unique receptors—a vast repertoire that can theoretically match any pathogen existing on Earth, in the universe, or even one that may evolve in the future. A true library. The crucial step in defeating strong and complex pathogens is finding the T or B cell with the right protein receptor match. Once this match occurs, these cells replicate and flood the site of infection. Helper T cells amplify the response of macrophages in the battlefield, while B cells produce antibodies. Initially, the antibodies are weak, but once helper T cells signal the B cells to target a specific threat, the B cells transform into plasma cells, generating more potent antibodies. The encouraging helper T Cells here act almost like a two-step authentication system after the initial activation of the dendritic cell.

This sophisticated interplay between the innate and adaptive immune responses highlights the multi-layered defense strategy of our immune system. If one line of defense fails, another, more specialized and potent line stands ready. Since the immune system is exhausting and energy consuming, it has evolved into these different stages based on the seriousness of the invader. This approach echoes a principle of thoughtful preparation and contingency planning, not unlike the protective walls of a castle, each ring of wall more formidable than the outer one.

One reason the immune system functions with multiple layers and phases is to conserve energy and reduce harm to the body’s own cells. Immune responses can be destructive, so the system operates with varying intensities, deploying stronger responses only when necessary. In a similar vein, we might consider the value of thoughtful, disciplined planning in our lives, taking inspiration from nature’s design. By dedicating time to careful contemplation and developing strategic responses to potential scenarios, we might navigate life with reduced psychological strain and fewer adverse outcomes.₂

This concept applies not only to personal planning, but also to professional fields like urban planning, which often suffers from a lack of forethought. Modern cities frequently lack the rigorous planning disciplines necessary for sustainable development, leading to issues that could have been mitigated with better preparation._‡

Ultimately, just as the immune system embodies a balance between readiness and restraint, we, too, can benefit from cultivating a disciplined, adaptable approach to life’s infinite possibilities, allowing us to respond with resilience to both expected and unforeseen challenges. The “undisciplined and unlearned mind” is always a step behind when compared to the clock-like functioning “pure-evolution body”. The tricky part of life is dealing with the freedom of thought presented to us by nature. A biological gift that could only be turned truly useful and positive with the application of unrelenting discipline and proper planning. Thus, rendering the body and mind as one in its foresight, sophistication and unwavering discipline.

* Both T and B cells originate in the bone marrow, but their developmental paths diverge significantly. T cells migrate to the thymus gland, where they undergo rigorous “education.” The thymus acts as a kind of university for T cells, selectively “graduating” only those that demonstrate the ability to function effectively and, most critically, distinguish between “self” and “non-self.” This ensures they can protect the body without attacking its own tissues. In contrast, B cells complete both their formation and maturation in the bone marrow, emerging ready to recognize antigens and contribute to the immune response.

† Antigens are organic components of pathogens that trigger an immune response. Dendritic cells play a crucial role in this process by presenting these antigens bound to their MHC II molecules. Acting as sentinels of the immune system, dendritic cells migrate to the lymph nodes, where they display the antigen-MHC II complex to recruit and activate T cells, initiating a targeted immune response.

‡ Here, I am primarily referring to cities in the East, where my architectural practice is currently focused.

Footnotes:

1) The immune system has intrigued me for quite some time, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. In my quest to understand it better, I discovered a remarkable book that, to this day, I consider the ultimate guide for those of us without a medical background. Philipp Dettmer’s Immune masterfully demystifies the complexities of the immune system, stripping away scientific jargon to make the subject accessible and engaging for the everyday reader.

2) For more information on this topic, please read one of my previous papers on the importance of planning. Advancing our being through planning. https://sahinarikoglu.com/2024/09/12/advancing-our-being-through-planning/

Image Credits:

Image 1: Courtesy of lumenlearning.com: https://courses.lumenlearning.com/suny-microbiology/chapter/b-lymphocytes-and-humoral-immunity/

Disclaimer: I am not a healthcare professional, and this content should be regarded as a thought experiment presented on my personal website. The information shared regarding the immune system is derived from my own research and is not intended as medical advice.