[dbaboci]

Could you elaborate why the quote you mention is a faux pas. I think from the evolution / morphogenesis perspective he describes how constraints (i.e. gravitational, energetic) shape and direct the space state. Lewontin (also affiliated with Santa Fe) goes a bit further here on that I think: http://www.accuracyingenesis.com/evolution/complications.htm

I read the review and agree with some of what Aaron is saying. But the book is meant to appeal to a general audience. West's research is well represented in peer-reviewed journals, where most of his concerns are properly addressed (example: https://www.pnas.org/content/104/17/7301).