Biological Complexity and Integrative Pluralism (Cambridge Studies in Philosophy and Biology)
Cambridge University Press
Edition: illustrated edition, 9/15/2003
EAN 9780521817530, ISBN10: 0521817536
Hardcover, 262 pages, 22.9 x 15.2 x 1.6 cm
Language: English
Originally published in English
This fine collection of essays by a leading philosopher of science presents a defence of integrative pluralism as the best description for the complexity of scientific inquiry today. The tendency of some scientists to unify science by reducing all theories to a few fundamental laws of the most basic particles that populate our universe is ill-suited to the biological sciences, which study multi-component, multi-level, evolved complex systems. This integrative pluralism is the most efficient way to understand the different and complex processes - historical and interactive - that generate biological phenomena. This book will be of interest to students and professionals in the philosophy of science.
1. Introduction
Part I. Complexity
2. Constitutive complexity
3. Dynamic complexity
4. Evolved diversity
Part II. Pluralism
5. Laws
6. Pluralism or disunity.