Iain M. Banks, in his book "Consider Phlebas," explores the idea of species evolving and expanding until they reach a point of balance, referred to as the plateau phase. This concept suggests that every species, in its pursuit of growth and survival, ultimately experiences a transition where it stabilizes rather than continues unchecked. The notion highlights the natural cycle of life, emphasizing that non-suicidal species eventually find a harmonious state within their environments. This balance allows them to coexist without driving themselves to extinction. By portraying this cycle, Banks examines the broader implications of growth and sustainability in the universe.

Just one more species, which would grow and expand and then, finding the plateau phase all non-suicidal species eventually arrived at, settle down.

- book: Consider Phlebas - author: Iain M. Banks