MET-Convergence: A Framework for Identifying Major Evolutionary Transitions Through Information Integration Metrics

Version 3 (March 19, 2026). Major revision incorporating eusocial phylogenetic evidence, institutional trust literature, and Gaian developmental perspective. Key changes since v2: Section 6.2 rewritten with correct MET stage mapping of ant communication (mass chemical recruitment = Stage 1 stigmergy, caste differentiation = Stage 2, tandem running = Stage 3 direct signaling; Glaser and Gruter 2022 phylogenetic data directly confirms MET sequence). Section 6.4 expanded with identity-mediated cooperation scaling beyond Dunbar limits (Dunbar 1992, Brewer 1999, North 1990, Ostrom 1990, Zucker 1986). Section 6.5 strengthened with Gaian developmental perspective (Lovelock 1979, Watson and Lovelock 1983). Alarm pheromones addressed as Stage 4 broadcast, trophallaxis as mixed Stage 1/3. Nine blind review rounds and three Gemini Deep Think reviews completed (Section 6.2 scored 8.5/10). References expanded from 63 to 72. This preprint combines the MET communication sequence with Living Systems Theory into a dual-axis framework, maps 25 CI projects against both axes, and proposes three empirical criteria for Stage 6 identification.