On the origin of mitosing cells
Mitochondria and chloroplasts originated as independent bacteria that became endosymbionts
This revolutionary paper proposed the endosymbiotic origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts, establishing that mutualism can drive major evolutionary transitions. Margulis argued that eukaryotic cells originated through symbiotic mergers of previously independent organisms - a radical idea at the time that is now widely accepted.
For organizational thinking, this research demonstrates that the most transformative partnerships can result in entirely new organizational forms. The merger of distinct capabilities through mutualism created eukaryotic cells with capabilities neither ancestral organism possessed - analogous to how deep organizational partnerships can create emergent capabilities impossible for either partner alone.
Key Findings from Margulis (1967)
- Mitochondria and chloroplasts originated as independent bacteria that became endosymbionts
- Vertical transmission (passing symbionts to offspring) creates perfect evolutionary alignment
- Major evolutionary transitions can occur through mutualistic mergers
- Obligate interdependence eliminates defection as a viable strategy