The End of Final Causes in Biology
The End of Final Causes in Biology is a thought-provoking and scholarly work that explores one of the most fundamental debates in the philosophy of science and modern biology: the role of teleology—or purpose-driven explanations—in understanding life processes. This book challenges traditional Aristotelian concepts of “final causes” and examines how contemporary biology replaces them with mechanistic, evolutionary, and systems-based explanations.
Written by an expert in the history and philosophy of science, this volume is an essential resource for biologists, philosophers, researchers, and advanced students who want to understand the conceptual foundations of modern biological thought. It offers deep insights into how evolutionary theory, molecular biology, and systems biology have reshaped our understanding of function, adaptation, and design in nature—without invoking purposive causes.
Key Features:
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Historical and philosophical analysis – Traces the origins of final cause thinking from Aristotle to modern evolutionary biology.
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Critical examination of teleology – Explores how purpose-oriented explanations have been replaced by mechanistic and evolutionary reasoning.
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Covers multiple disciplines – Integrates perspectives from molecular biology, evolutionary theory, and systems biology.
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Scholarly yet accessible – Written for both academic specialists and scientifically curious readers.
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Ideal for advanced study – Suitable for university courses in biology, philosophy of science, and evolutionary theory.
