lifian

Lifian is a term used in speculative biology, philosophy, and science fiction to describe life-like systems or beings that blend biological and information-processing elements. In this broad sense, lifians may refer to organisms or hybrids whose metabolism or functional core relies on computational processes, data exchange, or embedded machinery as part of their life cycle. The term is not tied to a single scientific definition and its exact meaning varies by context.

The word appears to be a neologism built from life and the suffix -ian, following conventions used for classifying beings and concepts. Because lifian has no universally accepted definition, its use can range from a purely hypothetical category in thought experiments to a narrative device in fiction.

In fiction, lifians are often depicted as sentient or semi-sentient entities that integrate biology and technology, sometimes presenting ethical or existential questions about what it means to be alive. In scientific or philosophical discussions, lifian concepts may be used to explore ideas about information as a life-like substrate, the boundaries between living and nonliving systems, and the potential for life that transcends traditional carbon-based biology.

Lifian discussions typically emphasize a continuum between organic and inorganic systems rather than a strict dichotomy. Related topics include synthetic biology, artificial life, astrobiology, and the philosophy of biology.