Diversification and Mutation

One context in which Diversification is recognized as a potentially progressive development is in Evolutionary Theory, i. e. Mutation. But, as the example of the emergence of opposing thumbs illustrates, the mere variation of the previous 'hand' is only potentially an asset, an actual advantage depending on whether or not the new growths are effectively integrated with the pre-existing appendages. Thus, Mutation is instructive for social Diversification--to benefit a collective, the introduction of new and different members must be welcomed, and without their novel characteristics being suppressed.