Is the 'black box' of biological development dismantling Darwinian theory?
In short: Michael Ruse explores whether evolutionary developmental biology (evo-devo) is merely completing Darwinian theory or fundamentally challenging its core principles. He examines the shift from viewing development as a mystery to a measurable process and the philosophical divide it creates.
Historically, biological development was treated as a 'black box'—a mysterious gap between the genes of an organism and its final physical form. By opening this box, evo-devo provides a clearer view of how organisms actually build themselves. However, this new clarity has sparked a significant philosophical rift.
Standard Darwinians and proponents of the 'extended synthesis' interpret these findings differently. While some see evo-devo as a way to complete and refine Darwinian theory, others argue it challenges fundamental assumptions about how evolution operates. Ruse, a prominent philosopher of biology, contextualizes these debates within the broader history of evolutionary thought.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Does Evo-Devo Show That Darwinism Is Inadequate? | Michael Ruse
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