Philosophy of Biology

Nonfiction, Science & Nature, Science, Biological Sciences, Biology, Other Sciences, Philosophy & Social Aspects
Cover of the book Philosophy of Biology by Peter Godfrey-Smith, Princeton University Press
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Peter Godfrey-Smith ISBN: 9781400850440
Publisher: Princeton University Press Publication: December 20, 2013
Imprint: Princeton University Press Language: English
Author: Peter Godfrey-Smith
ISBN: 9781400850440
Publisher: Princeton University Press
Publication: December 20, 2013
Imprint: Princeton University Press
Language: English

This is a concise, comprehensive, and accessible introduction to the philosophy of biology written by a leading authority on the subject. Geared to philosophers, biologists, and students of both, the book provides sophisticated and innovative coverage of the central topics and many of the latest developments in the field. Emphasizing connections between biological theories and other areas of philosophy, and carefully explaining both philosophical and biological terms, Peter Godfrey-Smith discusses the relation between philosophy and science; examines the role of laws, mechanistic explanation, and idealized models in biological theories; describes evolution by natural selection; and assesses attempts to extend Darwin's mechanism to explain changes in ideas, culture, and other phenomena. Further topics include functions and teleology, individuality and organisms, species, the tree of life, and human nature. The book closes with detailed, cutting-edge treatments of the evolution of cooperation, of information in biology, and of the role of communication in living systems at all scales.

Authoritative and up-to-date, this is an essential guide for anyone interested in the important philosophical issues raised by the biological sciences.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

This is a concise, comprehensive, and accessible introduction to the philosophy of biology written by a leading authority on the subject. Geared to philosophers, biologists, and students of both, the book provides sophisticated and innovative coverage of the central topics and many of the latest developments in the field. Emphasizing connections between biological theories and other areas of philosophy, and carefully explaining both philosophical and biological terms, Peter Godfrey-Smith discusses the relation between philosophy and science; examines the role of laws, mechanistic explanation, and idealized models in biological theories; describes evolution by natural selection; and assesses attempts to extend Darwin's mechanism to explain changes in ideas, culture, and other phenomena. Further topics include functions and teleology, individuality and organisms, species, the tree of life, and human nature. The book closes with detailed, cutting-edge treatments of the evolution of cooperation, of information in biology, and of the role of communication in living systems at all scales.

Authoritative and up-to-date, this is an essential guide for anyone interested in the important philosophical issues raised by the biological sciences.

More books from Princeton University Press

Cover of the book Birder's Conservation Handbook by Peter Godfrey-Smith
Cover of the book Zombie Economics: How Dead Ideas Still Walk among Us by Peter Godfrey-Smith
Cover of the book The Myth of Independence by Peter Godfrey-Smith
Cover of the book After Colonialism by Peter Godfrey-Smith
Cover of the book The Peace of the Gods by Peter Godfrey-Smith
Cover of the book Strong Borders, Secure Nation by Peter Godfrey-Smith
Cover of the book Winnebagos on Wednesdays by Peter Godfrey-Smith
Cover of the book The Theory of Taxation and Public Economics by Peter Godfrey-Smith
Cover of the book Longing for the Lost Caliphate by Peter Godfrey-Smith
Cover of the book One Hundred Semesters by Peter Godfrey-Smith
Cover of the book Tesla by Peter Godfrey-Smith
Cover of the book Democratic Faith by Peter Godfrey-Smith
Cover of the book Photonic Crystals: Molding the Flow of Light (Second Edition) by Peter Godfrey-Smith
Cover of the book Between Monopoly and Free Trade by Peter Godfrey-Smith
Cover of the book The Race Card by Peter Godfrey-Smith
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy